St. Cloud Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 116,347 and a calculated risk score of 72.8, St. Cloud faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for St. Cloud, MN. St. Cloud is a city with a rich history and bright future. But smart residents know to keep an eye on the forecast. We found that winter weather rank among the highest local hazards.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. St. Cloud sits at a Risk Score of 72.811. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Winter Weather and Lightning.
Winter storm risk in St. Cloud, Minnesota
Severe winter weather and ice storms pose a unique threat to St. Cloud, potentially causing extended power outages and hazardous road conditions. Infrastructure in the area may be vulnerable to heavy ice accumulation.
St. Cloud Winter Grid Failure Prep
- •Have a safe, indoor-rated backup heat source
- •Insulate pipes and know how to shut off main water valve
- •Keep a backup battery bank for charging phones
Top Hazards for The St. Cloud Area
Historically, the climate of Minnesota dictates that historical precedents show that winter weather are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 95.2. A NOAA weather radio with battery backup is the most reliable way to receive alerts.
Long-standing weather records for Minnesota indicate citizens here are statistically more likely to encounter lightning. Crucially, an analytical review of past disasters puts the current risk tier at 94.9. Surge protectors and whole-home backup solutions are increasingly popular investments.
Considering the historical weather trends in Minnesota, data indicates that St. Cloud has a higher-than-average exposure to tornadoes. It is important to note that this metric (score: 93.4) aligns with federal disaster declarations for the county. Keeping trees trimmed near power lines reduces the risk of prolonged outages.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
St. Cloud has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in St. Cloud? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in St. Cloud
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for St. Cloud. While specific risks vary, the fundamentals of survival—water, food, and information—remain the same.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Keep a physical map of the local area in case GPS fails.
- 2Maintain a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water.
- 3Have a first aid kit and a supply of prescription medications.
- 4Keep a battery-powered radio to stay informed during power outages.
- 5Establish a family communication plan for when cell towers are down.
Essential Gear for St. Cloud
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 Winter Weather is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis | 93.7 | When compared to Minneapolis, St. Cloud is statistically safer. The difference of 20.9 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| St. Paul | 88.7 | When compared to St. Paul, St. Cloud is statistically safer. The difference of 15.9 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Rochester | 72.7 | Choosing between St. Cloud and Rochester? St. Cloud presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Duluth | 57.1 | Choosing between St. Cloud and Duluth? St. Cloud presents a unique set of challenges. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Winter Weathers in St. Cloud?
With a risk score of 95.2 for Winter Weather, St. Cloud is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Winter Weather events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is St. Cloud safer than other cities in Minnesota?
It varies by hazard. While St. Cloud has its own risk profile (Total Score: 72.8), it is generally comparable to the average in Minnesota. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to St. Cloud given the risk of Lightning?
Every city has risks. The threat of Lightning (Score: 94.9) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in St. Cloud is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does St. Cloud compare to other cities in Minnesota?
See the full Minnesota Disaster Rankings to see how St. Cloud stacks up against other cities in the state.