St. Paul Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 307,762 and a calculated risk score of 88.7, St. Paul faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for St. Paul, MN. Calling St. Paul home means understanding its environment. While often overlooked, the local hazard data is clear. The numbers show a clear susceptibility to tornadoes.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns St. Paul a Risk Score of 88.664 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Tornado and Heat Wave.
Tornado risk in St. Paul, Minnesota
St. Paul 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.
St. Paul 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 St. Paul Area
Observing the seasonal cycles typical of Minnesota, tornadoes constitute a major variable in the local quality of life equations. Moreover weighted against regional averages, this score of 99.0 is statistically significant. For new residents, understanding the severity of tornadoes in their specific zip code is vital.
Across the diverse landscape of Minnesota, heat wave preparedness is ingrained in the local community culture. Furthermore, the generated risk index of 98.0 is derived from granular local inputs. Insulation and sealing drafts can be a lifesaver when a heat wave strains the power grid.
Historically, the climate of Minnesota dictates that historical precedents show that landslides are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 94.3. Securing heavy furniture and knowing how to shut off gas lines are top priorities here.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in St. Paul? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in St. Paul
Read the Full Guide →Identify your safe room immediately. In St. Paul, 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 St. Paul
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.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis | 93.7 | Choosing between St. Paul and Minneapolis? St. Paul presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Rochester | 72.7 | Rochester and St. Paul share similar regional risks, but our data gives Rochester the edge in overall safety. |
| Duluth | 57.1 | Duluth and St. Paul share similar regional risks, but our data gives Duluth the edge in overall safety. |
| St. Cloud | 72.8 | St. Cloud and St. Paul share similar regional risks, but our data gives St. Cloud the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Tornados in St. Paul?
With a risk score of 99.0 for Tornado, St. Paul 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 St. Paul safer than other cities in Minnesota?
It varies by hazard. While St. Paul has its own risk profile (Total Score: 88.7), it is generally comparable to the average in Minnesota. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to St. Paul given the risk of Heat Wave?
Every city has risks. The threat of Heat Wave (Score: 98.0) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in St. Paul is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does St. Paul compare to other cities in Minnesota?
See the full Minnesota Disaster Rankings to see how St. Paul stacks up against other cities in the state.