Rockford Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 274,256 and a calculated risk score of 85.4, Rockford faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Rockford, IL. Life in Rockford 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 85.435, Rockford requires specific preparation. The data highlights Tornado as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Tornado risk in Rockford, Illinois
Rockford 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.
Rockford 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 Rockford Area
For residents of Illinois, it is well known that local patterns show a recurring trend of tornado activity. Moreover statistical analysis places this risk level at 97.0/100, requiring attention. For new residents, understanding the severity of tornadoes in their specific zip code is vital.
Given the environmental patterns common in Illinois, the potential for ice storms in Rockford stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 96.9 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
Comparisons of local data to the rest of Illinois reveal, Rockford faces a critical challenge with lightning events. In light of this, with a calculated Risk Score of 95.2, this hazard ranks among the top concerns. Identifying a safe, windowless interior room is part of basic move-in preparation here.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Rockford has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Rockford? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Rockford
Read the Full Guide →Identify your safe room immediately. In Rockford, 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 Rockford
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago | 99.5 | Choosing between Rockford and Chicago? Rockford presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Peoria | 78.0 | When compared to Peoria, Rockford is slightly higher risk. The difference of 7.4 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Round Lake Beach | 90.9 | Choosing between Rockford and Round Lake Beach? Rockford presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Aurora | 85.9 | When compared to Aurora, Rockford is statistically safer. The difference of 0.5 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Springfield | 82.8 | Springfield and Rockford share similar regional risks, but our data gives Springfield the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Tornados in Rockford?
With a risk score of 97.0 for Tornado, Rockford 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 Rockford safer than other cities in Illinois?
It varies by hazard. While Rockford has its own risk profile (Total Score: 85.4), it is generally comparable to the average in Illinois. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Rockford given the risk of Ice Storm?
Every city has risks. The threat of Ice Storm (Score: 96.9) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Rockford is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Rockford compare to other cities in Illinois?
See the full Illinois Disaster Rankings to see how Rockford stacks up against other cities in the state.