Minneapolis Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 2,906,807 and a calculated risk score of 93.7, Minneapolis faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Minneapolis, MN. The landscape around Minneapolis defines much of daily life. Yet, the geography also exposes the area to certain threats. The risk of tornadoes is higher here than the national average.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Minneapolis sits at a Risk Score of 93.701. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Tornado and Heat Wave.
Tornado risk in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis 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.
Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis Area
Comparisons of local data to the rest of Minnesota reveal, Minneapolis faces a critical challenge with tornado events. In light of this, with a calculated Risk Score of 99.7, this hazard ranks among the top concerns. Identifying a safe, windowless interior room is part of basic move-in preparation here.
Within the specific ecosystem of Minnesota, heat wave frequency is a defining characteristic of the local hazard profile. As a result, historical probability models result in a localized score of 97.0/100. A NOAA weather radio with battery backup is the most reliable way to receive alerts.
Regional data for Minnesota suggests that the area is historically prone to periods of winter weather. Consequently, the data-driven score of 94.2 underscores the need for preparedness. Local schools and businesses typically have robust protocols for these weather events.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Minneapolis has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Minneapolis? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Minneapolis
Read the Full Guide →Identify your safe room immediately. In Minneapolis, 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
- 1Prepare for secondary heat waves if power is lost.
- 2Secure outdoor furniture that could become projectiles.
- 3Keep a whistle in your kit to signal for help if trapped.
- 4Wear a helmet (bike or construction) to protect from debris.
- 5Have a weather radio with a battery backup to receive alerts.
Essential Gear for Minneapolis
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
Home
Gorilla Tape (Black)
Heavy-duty tape for emergency repairs, sealing windows, or medical improvisation.
The best insurance against Tornado is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| St. Paul | 88.7 | When compared to St. Paul, Minneapolis is slightly higher risk. The difference of 5.0 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Rochester | 72.7 | Choosing between Minneapolis and Rochester? Minneapolis presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Duluth | 57.1 | Choosing between Minneapolis and Duluth? Minneapolis presents a unique set of challenges. |
| St. Cloud | 72.8 | Choosing between Minneapolis and St. Cloud? Minneapolis presents a unique set of challenges. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Tornados in Minneapolis?
With a risk score of 99.7 for Tornado, Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis safer than other cities in Minnesota?
It varies by hazard. While Minneapolis has its own risk profile (Total Score: 93.7), it is among the higher-risk areas in Minnesota. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Minneapolis given the risk of Heat Wave?
Every city has risks. The threat of Heat Wave (Score: 97.0) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Minneapolis is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Minneapolis compare to other cities in Minnesota?
See the full Minnesota Disaster Rankings to see how Minneapolis stacks up against other cities in the state.