Rock County, Wisconsin Hazard Report | Natural Catastrophe And Climate Risk

HazardDB

Hazard Score

157 Catastrophes Recorded

Historical_Hail

121

Historical_Tornadoes

Historical_Floods

Historical_Wind

279

Historical_Wildfires

Rock County, Wisconsin

4 Cities with a Population of 163,816, and 62,905 Households

Rock County, Wisconsin, faces a relatively low overall natural disaster and climate risk, with a risk score of 81.26 and a risk rating of "Relatively Low." Specific hazards include a moderate risk of tornadoes, with 15 events forecasted and a risk rating of "Very Low." Additionally, the county experiences a relatively low risk of hailstorms, with 151 events expected and a risk rating of "Relatively Low." The area is also prone to severe winter storms, with 191 events predicted and a risk rating of "Relatively Low."

Despite the overall low risk, certain factors contribute to these hazards. Rock County is located inland and does not have a coastline, reducing the risk of hurricanes and tsunamis. The area is characterized by flat terrain with no major fault lines or mountain peaks, which lowers the risk of earthquakes and landslides. However, the county's proximity to Lake Michigan and other water bodies increases the potential for lake-effect snowstorms and heavy rainfall events, leading to flooding and winter weather hazards.

While Rock County may not face the same level of risk as coastal or mountainous regions, it is essential for residents to remain prepared for tornadoes, hailstorms, and winter storms. Historical data shows that these events have occurred in the past, highlighting the need for emergency planning and mitigation measures. With a focus on these specific hazards and the unique geological features of the area, residents can better understand and address the potential risks they face in Rock County, Wisconsin.

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: Moderate

HAZARDS

110

Power Transmission Lines

0

Coastlines

9

Water Bodies

0

Fault Lines

EMERGENCY SERVICES

99

Hazard Shelters

16

Fire Stations

4

Hospitals

11

Police Stations

COMMUNITY PROFILE

Rock County in Wisconsin has a population of 163,816 with a population density of 225.6 people per square mile. The county has a diverse population with 85.7% White, 4.9% Black, 0.3% American Indian or Alaskan Native, 1% Asian, and 7.4% Hispanic. The median age in Rock County is 37.9, with males slightly younger at a median age of 36.8, and females slightly older at a median age of 39. The county has a total of 62,905 households, with an average household size of 2.5. In terms of housing, Rock County has 68,422 housing units, with a homeownership rate of 64.9% and a vacancy rate of 8.1%.

Compared to other counties in Wisconsin, Rock County has a higher population density and a higher percentage of Black and Hispanic residents. The county also has a younger population with a median age below the state average of 39.4. In terms of housing, Rock County has a lower homeownership rate compared to the state average of 68.4%, indicating a higher proportion of renters. The county also has a higher vacancy rate compared to the state average of 5.7%, suggesting a potential oversupply of housing units in Rock County.

Regions

CLIMATE OVERVIEW

Average Temperature

9 °F Cold

Average Precipitation

872 mm Moderate

Average Humidity

83% Moderately High

Plant Hardiness

5/10 Moderate

NATURAL CATASTROPHE TIMELINE

Hailstorm

2020-07-07

Hailstorm

2020-05-23

Hailstorm

2019-10-01

Hailstorm

2019-06-01

Flooding

Snowmelt, Heavy Rain, Ice Jams

Tornado

2010-09-21

Hailstorm

2010-09-21

Hailstorm

2010-09-21

Flooding

Dam Failure, Heavy Rain

Flooding

Heavy Rain

Flooding

Rain And Snowmelt

2008-03-17

Flooding

Flooding

Heavy Rain

2004-06-10

Flooding

Heavy Rain

Brief Torrential Rain

1998-08-04

Tornado

1998-06-25

Hailstorm

1998-06-25

Hailstorm

1997-06-20

Flooding

Rain And Snowmelt