Loveland, Colorado Natural Disasters | Larimer County Hazard Db

HazardDB

Hazard Score

60 Catastrophes Recorded

Historical_Hail

Historical_Tornadoes

Historical_Floods

Historical_Wind

Historical_Wildfires

Loveland, Colorado

21 Land Tracts in Larimer County , Big Thompson Watershed

Loveland, Colorado faces a relatively high risk of natural disasters, with specific factors contributing to this assessment. The area's climate presents challenges, with a moderate risk level indicated by high lightning and river flooding risks. Loveland's location near the Big Thompson and South Platte hydrologic units increases the likelihood of flooding events, as seen in the devastating 1976 Big Thompson Canyon flash flood that claimed over 140 lives. Additionally, the region's high elevation and mountainous terrain amplify the risk of wildfires, as demonstrated by the destructive High Park Fire in 2012.

Geological features in the area further impact hazard risk in Loveland. The city's proximity to the Rocky Mountains presents avalanche risks, with past incidents such as the 1979 Alpine Meadows avalanche in nearby Winter Park highlighting the potential danger. While Loveland is not directly on a fault line, the region's seismic activity from nearby faults like the Rio Grande Rift Zone increases the risk of earthquakes. The presence of water bodies like the Big Thompson River also heightens flood risks, as observed in the 2013 Colorado floods that inundated parts of Larimer County, where Loveland is located.

In conclusion, Loveland, Colorado faces a complex combination of natural disaster risks due to its climate, geological features, and historical events. The area's vulnerability to floods, wildfires, lightning strikes, and potential earthquakes underscores the importance of preparedness and mitigation efforts. Residents and local authorities must remain vigilant and proactive in addressing these risks to enhance the city's resilience in the face of future natural disasters.

Wildfire Risk: Low

Tornado Risk: Low

Hurricane Risk: Very Low

Hail Risk: Moderate

Flood Risk: Low

Tsunami Risk: Very Low

Earthquake Risk: Very Low

Wind Risk: Low

HAZARDS

23

Power Transmission Lines

0

Coastlines

14

Water Bodies

0

Fault Lines

EMERGENCY SERVICES

9

Hazard Shelters

4

Fire Stations

0

Hospitals

1

Police Stations

COMMUNITY PROFILE

Larimer County, Colorado faces a relatively moderate overall natural disaster and climate risk, with a risk score of 93.54. The county has a population of 358,792 and a risk value of $72,217,813. The risk rating is relatively moderate, with specific hazards such as wildfires, hailstorms, and tornadoes contributing to the risk profile. The county has experienced an average of 136.69 wind events per year, with a high frequency of lightning strikes and a relatively low risk of floods.

Specific climate factors in Larimer County include a high occurrence of lightning strikes, hailstorms, and wind events. The county is characterized by diverse geological features such as mountain peaks, water bodies, and open spaces, which can influence the severity of natural disasters. The area's proximity to fault lines and mountainous terrain can exacerbate the impact of hazards like wildfires and landslides. Historical events such as severe hailstorms and tornado outbreaks have ... Read More

CLIMATE OVERVIEW

Average Temperature

10 °F Cold

Average Precipitation

382 mm Moderately Low

Average Humidity

50% Moderate

Plant Hardiness

5/10 Moderate

NATURAL CATASTROPHE TIMELINE

Flooding

Monsoon Rain

Heavy Rain

1999-04-29

Flooding

Hailstorm

1955-06-02

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