Kenosha Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 125,807 and a calculated risk score of 68.8, Kenosha faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Kenosha, WI. Calling Kenosha home means understanding its environment. While often overlooked, the local hazard data is clear. The numbers show a clear susceptibility to tornadoes.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 68.806, Kenosha requires specific preparation. The data highlights Tornado as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Tornado risk in Kenosha, Wisconsin
Kenosha is susceptible to severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes. Weather patterns in this region can generate sudden rotational storms that give residents very little warning time compared to other hazards.
Kenosha Tornado Safety
- •Identify an interior room without windows on the lowest floor
- •Monitor NOAA weather radio during spring storm season
- •Clear yard of potential projectiles before storms arrive
Top Hazards for The Kenosha Area
Observing the seasonal cycles typical of Wisconsin, tornadoes constitute a major variable in the local quality of life equations. Moreover weighted against regional averages, this score of 93.6 is statistically significant. For new residents, understanding the severity of tornadoes in their specific zip code is vital.
Given the environmental patterns common in Wisconsin, the potential for lightning in Kenosha stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 92.1 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
When analyzing the risk profile of Wisconsin, Kenosha's geography makes it particularly susceptible to heat wave risks. Crucially, we've weighted historical incidence rates to arrive at a localized risk verification of 91.0. Surge protectors and whole-home backup solutions are increasingly popular investments.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Kenosha? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Kenosha
Read the Full Guide →Identify your safe room immediately. In Kenosha, severe storms can spin up quickly. You need a safe, windowless location and a way to receive alerts when the power grid fails.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Secure outdoor furniture that could become projectiles.
- 2Keep a whistle in your kit to signal for help if trapped.
- 3Wear a helmet (bike or construction) to protect from debris.
- 4Have a weather radio with a battery backup to receive alerts.
- 5Identify a basement or interior room without windows as your shelter.
Essential Gear for Kenosha
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
Do not wait for a Tornado warning to start packing. Secure your essential gear today.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee | 91.1 | When compared to Milwaukee, Kenosha is statistically safer. The difference of 22.3 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Madison | 86.9 | Choosing between Kenosha and Madison? Kenosha presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Appleton | 57.6 | Appleton and Kenosha share similar regional risks, but our data gives Appleton the edge in overall safety. |
| Green Bay | 68.6 | When compared to Green Bay, Kenosha is slightly higher risk. The difference of 0.2 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Racine | 65.0 | When compared to Racine, Kenosha is slightly higher risk. The difference of 3.8 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Tornados in Kenosha?
With a risk score of 93.6 for Tornado, Kenosha is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Tornado events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Kenosha safer than other cities in Wisconsin?
It varies by hazard. While Kenosha has its own risk profile (Total Score: 68.8), it is generally comparable to the average in Wisconsin. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Kenosha given the risk of Lightning?
Every city has risks. The threat of Lightning (Score: 92.1) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Kenosha is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Kenosha compare to other cities in Wisconsin?
See the full Wisconsin Disaster Rankings to see how Kenosha stacks up against other cities in the state.