Lawrence Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 96,380 and a calculated risk score of 70.5, Lawrence faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Lawrence, KS. Life in Lawrence comes with its own set of rewards. However, FEMA data points to some underlying risks. Your emergency plan should definitely account for tornadoes.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 70.495, Lawrence requires specific preparation. The data highlights Tornado as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Tornado risk in Lawrence, Kansas
Lawrence 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.
Lawrence 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 Lawrence Area
For residents of Kansas, it is well known that local patterns show a recurring trend of tornado activity. Moreover statistical analysis places this risk level at 94.1/100, requiring attention. For new residents, understanding the severity of tornadoes in their specific zip code is vital.
Given the environmental patterns common in Kansas, the potential for ice storms in Lawrence stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 93.3 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
As population density grows in Kansas, future climate projections suggest an uptick in winter weather severity. However, our modeling, based on FEMA and NOAA datasets, assigns a score of 86.3/100. Power outages often accompany these events, making backup power (like batteries) essential.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Lawrence has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Lawrence? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Lawrence
Read the Full Guide →Identify your safe room immediately. In Lawrence, 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 Lawrence
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Wichita | 92.6 | Choosing between Lawrence and Wichita? Lawrence presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Overland Park | 92.1 | Choosing between Lawrence and Overland Park? Lawrence presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Kansas City | 82.7 | Kansas City and Lawrence share similar regional risks, but our data gives Lawrence the edge in overall safety. |
| Topeka | 73.8 | When compared to Topeka, Lawrence is statistically safer. The difference of 3.3 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Olathe | 92.1 | When compared to Olathe, Lawrence is statistically safer. The difference of 21.6 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Tornados in Lawrence?
With a risk score of 94.1 for Tornado, Lawrence 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 Lawrence safer than other cities in Kansas?
It varies by hazard. While Lawrence has its own risk profile (Total Score: 70.5), it is generally comparable to the average in Kansas. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Lawrence given the risk of Ice Storm?
Every city has risks. The threat of Ice Storm (Score: 93.3) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Lawrence is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Lawrence compare to other cities in Kansas?
See the full Kansas Disaster Rankings to see how Lawrence stacks up against other cities in the state.