St. Louis Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 2,127,843 and a calculated risk score of 93.6, St. Louis faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for St. Louis, MO. The landscape around St. Louis defines much of daily life. Yet, the geography also exposes the area to certain threats. The risk of winter weather is higher here than the national average.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns St. Louis a Risk Score of 93.584 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Winter Weather and Heat Wave.
Winter storm risk in St. Louis, Missouri
Severe winter weather and ice storms pose a unique threat to St. Louis, potentially causing extended power outages and hazardous road conditions. Infrastructure in the area may be vulnerable to heavy ice accumulation.
St. Louis 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. Louis Area
Environmental studies focusing on Missouri highlight that the area's infrastructure faces consistent tests from winter weather events. Additionally, federal hazard layers combined with local topography result in this 100.0 score. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
In terms of regional hazard exposure in Missouri, the proximity to specific terrain features amplifies the heat wave risk. It is important to note that this value of 99.5 serves as a benchmark for local insurance and safety planning. Keeping trees trimmed near power lines reduces the risk of prolonged outages.
Historically, the climate of Missouri dictates that historical precedents show that tornadoes are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 98.6. A NOAA weather radio with battery backup is the most reliable way to receive alerts.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
St. Louis has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in St. Louis? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in St. Louis
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for St. Louis. While specific risks vary, the fundamentals of survival—water, food, and information—remain the same.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Prepare for secondary heat waves if power is lost.
- 2Keep a physical map of the local area in case GPS fails.
- 3Maintain a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water.
- 4Have a first aid kit and a supply of prescription medications.
- 5Keep a battery-powered radio to stay informed during power outages.
Essential Gear for St. Louis
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 Winter Weather now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas City | 93.9 | Choosing between St. Louis and Kansas City? St. Louis presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Springfield | 88.3 | Choosing between St. Louis and Springfield? St. Louis presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Columbia | 82.3 | Choosing between St. Louis and Columbia? St. Louis presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Independence | 93.9 | Independence and St. Louis share similar regional risks, but our data gives St. Louis the edge in overall safety. |
| Lee's Summit | 93.9 | Lee's Summit and St. Louis share similar regional risks, but our data gives St. Louis the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Winter Weathers in St. Louis?
With a risk score of 100.0 for Winter Weather, St. Louis 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. Louis safer than other cities in Missouri?
It varies by hazard. While St. Louis has its own risk profile (Total Score: 93.6), it is among the higher-risk areas in Missouri. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to St. Louis given the risk of Heat Wave?
Every city has risks. The threat of Heat Wave (Score: 99.5) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in St. Louis is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does St. Louis compare to other cities in Missouri?
See the full Missouri Disaster Rankings to see how St. Louis stacks up against other cities in the state.