Dubuque, Iowa Natural Disasters | Dubuque County Hazard Db

HazardDB

Hazard Score

65 Catastrophes Recorded

Historical_Hail

Historical_Tornadoes

Historical_Floods

Historical_Wind

Dubuque, Iowa

21 Land Tracts in Dubuque County , Apple-Plum Watershed

Dubuque, Iowa faces a relatively low overall natural disaster risk, with specific climate factors like a hardiness rating of 5 indicating a moderate ability to withstand extreme weather events. The area experiences high precipitation levels and humidity, which can contribute to flooding risks. Dubuque is located in close proximity to the Upper Mississippi River, which poses a potential flood risk during heavy rainfall events. The city's location in the Upper Mississippi hydrologic region also exposes it to potential riverine flooding.

While Dubuque does not have direct access to coastlines or fault lines, the presence of the Upper Mississippi River and the Apple-Plum hydrologic unit in the region can contribute to increased flood risk. The relatively moderate ratings for lightning risk, landslides, and drought indicate potential hazards that the city may face. Dubuque's location near the Maquoketa-Plum hydrologic accounting unit and the Upper Mississippi-Maquoketa-Plum hydrologic subregion further heightens the risk of flooding events. Historical events like the Great Flood of 1993 along the Mississippi River showcase the potential for devastating flooding in the region.

In conclusion, while Dubuque, Iowa may have a relatively low overall natural disaster risk rating, the city's proximity to the Upper Mississippi River and the presence of high precipitation levels and humidity make it susceptible to flooding events. The region's geological features and hydrologic units enhance the risk of riverine flooding, landslides, and lightning strikes. It is crucial for residents and authorities in Dubuque to remain vigilant and prepared for potential natural disasters, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.

Wildfire Risk: Very Low

Tornado Risk: Low

Hurricane Risk: Very Low

Hail Risk: Low

Flood Risk: Moderate

Tsunami Risk: Very Low

Earthquake Risk: Very Low

Wind Risk: Low

HAZARDS

15

Power Transmission Lines

0

Coastlines

4

Water Bodies

0

Fault Lines

EMERGENCY SERVICES

22

Hazard Shelters

5

Fire Stations

2

Hospitals

1

Police Stations

COMMUNITY PROFILE

Dubuque, Iowa faces relatively low to very high risk levels across various natural disaster categories, with a focus on tornadoes, hailstorms, and severe winds. The area's vulnerability is emphasized by the high frequency of events such as hail, wind, and lightning strikes, which pose significant threats to the population and infrastructure. Dubuque's exposure to these hazards is further amplified by its location in Tornado Alley, increasing the likelihood of tornado occurrences.

Additionally, Dubuque's proximity to the Mississippi River presents a risk of flooding, with the potential for extensive damage to property and infrastructure in the event of a major flood. The region's susceptibility to severe weather events is also heightened by its relatively low elevation and flat terrain, making it more prone to flooding and other climate-related disasters. Furthermore, with a high percentage of agricultural value at risk, the impact of natural disasters on the local economy could be ... Read More

CLIMATE OVERVIEW

Average Temperature

9 °F Cold

Average Precipitation

899 mm Moderate

Average Humidity

83% Moderately High

Plant Hardiness

5/10 Moderate

NATURAL CATASTROPHE TIMELINE

Flooding

Snowmelt, Heavy Rain, Ice Jams

Torrential Rain

2016-08-24

Hailstorm

2015-09-17

Hailstorm

2014-06-17

Flooding

Flooding

Dam Failure, Heavy Rain

2010-07-25

Hailstorm

2010-04-05

Hailstorm

2009-07-24

Hailstorm

2009-07-24

Flooding

Heavy Rain

2009-02-28

Flooding

Heavy Rain

2008-12-10

Flooding

Heavy Rain

2008-06-05

Hailstorm

2008-05-02

Hailstorm

2008-05-02

Flooding

Rain And Snowmelt

2008-03-17

Flooding

Heavy Rain

2007-08-16

Flooding

Heavy Rain

2004-05-22

Flooding

Heavy Rain

2002-06-04

Hailstorm

2002-06-03

Hailstorm

2002-05-11

Flooding

Snowmelt

Heavy Rain

1966-07-09

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