Sioux City Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 112,823 and a calculated risk score of 76.3, Sioux City faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Sioux City, IA. Sioux City is known for its welcoming atmosphere. Yet, our analysis highlights some important safety considerations. Analysis shows that tornadoes are a primary concern here.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Sioux City a Risk Score of 76.266 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Tornado and Landslide.
Tornado risk in Sioux City, Iowa
Sioux City 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.
Sioux City 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 Sioux City Area
Given the environmental patterns common in Iowa, the potential for tornadoes in Sioux City stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 96.4 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 Iowa, Sioux City's geography makes it particularly susceptible to landslide risks. Crucially, we've weighted historical incidence rates to arrive at a localized risk verification of 89.0. Bolt-down foundations and braced water heaters are standard requirements for safety.
Given the environmental patterns common in Iowa, the potential for heat waves in Sioux City stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 86.2 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Sioux City? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Sioux City
Read the Full Guide →Identify your safe room immediately. In Sioux City, 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 Sioux City
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.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Tornado now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Des Moines | 87.5 | When compared to Des Moines, Sioux City is statistically safer. The difference of 11.3 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Davenport | 73.4 | Davenport and Sioux City share similar regional risks, but our data gives Davenport the edge in overall safety. |
| Cedar Rapids | 88.2 | Cedar Rapids and Sioux City share similar regional risks, but our data gives Sioux City the edge in overall safety. |
| Iowa City | 89.8 | Iowa City and Sioux City share similar regional risks, but our data gives Sioux City the edge in overall safety. |
| Waterloo | 75.5 | Choosing between Sioux City and Waterloo? Sioux City presents a unique set of challenges. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Tornados in Sioux City?
With a risk score of 96.4 for Tornado, Sioux City 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 Sioux City safer than other cities in Iowa?
It varies by hazard. While Sioux City has its own risk profile (Total Score: 76.3), it is generally comparable to the average in Iowa. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Sioux City given the risk of Landslide?
Every city has risks. The threat of Landslide (Score: 89.0) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Sioux City is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Sioux City compare to other cities in Iowa?
See the full Iowa Disaster Rankings to see how Sioux City stacks up against other cities in the state.