Wichita Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 501,760 and a calculated risk score of 92.6, Wichita faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Wichita, KS. For residents of Wichita, life moves at its own pace. Unfortunately, nature can be unpredictable in this region. You should be particularly prepared for ice storms events.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Wichita sits at a Risk Score of 92.630. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Ice Storm and Tornado.
Winter storm risk in Wichita, Kansas
Severe winter weather and ice storms pose a unique threat to Wichita, potentially causing extended power outages and hazardous road conditions. Infrastructure in the area may be vulnerable to heavy ice accumulation.
Wichita 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 Wichita Area
Given the environmental patterns common in Kansas, the potential for ice storms in Wichita stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 99.4 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
Long-standing weather records for Kansas indicate citizens here are statistically more likely to encounter tornadoes. Crucially, an analytical review of past disasters puts the current risk tier at 99.3. Surge protectors and whole-home backup solutions are increasingly popular investments.
Considering the historical weather trends in Kansas, data indicates that Wichita has a higher-than-average exposure to lightning. It is important to note that this metric (score: 97.3) aligns with federal disaster declarations for the county. Keeping trees trimmed near power lines reduces the risk of prolonged outages.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Wichita has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Wichita? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Wichita
Read the Full Guide →Identify your safe room immediately. In Wichita, 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 Wichita
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.
The best insurance against Ice Storm is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Overland Park | 92.1 | Overland Park and Wichita share similar regional risks, but our data gives Overland Park the edge in overall safety. |
| Kansas City | 82.7 | When compared to Kansas City, Wichita is slightly higher risk. The difference of 9.9 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Topeka | 73.8 | Choosing between Wichita and Topeka? Wichita presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Olathe | 92.1 | Choosing between Wichita and Olathe? Wichita presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Lawrence | 70.5 | When compared to Lawrence, Wichita is slightly higher risk. The difference of 22.1 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Ice Storms in Wichita?
With a risk score of 99.4 for Ice Storm, Wichita is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Ice Storm events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Wichita safer than other cities in Kansas?
It varies by hazard. While Wichita has its own risk profile (Total Score: 92.6), it is among the higher-risk areas in Kansas. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Wichita given the risk of Tornado?
Every city has risks. The threat of Tornado (Score: 99.3) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Wichita is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Wichita compare to other cities in Kansas?
See the full Kansas Disaster Rankings to see how Wichita stacks up against other cities in the state.