Winter Storm tops the risk list, and FEMA has declared Wyoming a disaster area 45 times since 1953. Here's what to prepare for — and how.
Wyoming's emergency risk profile is shaped by its high elevation, continental climate, and vast stretches of forested and arid land. Winter storms rank as the state's most persistent and dangerous hazard: blizzards routinely paralyze Interstate 80 and isolate rural communities for days at a time. The October 1997 blizzard struck the High Plains with little warning, killing livestock by the tens of thousands and stranding motorists across southeastern Wyoming. Wildfire is the second defining threat. The 1988 Yellowstone fires burned roughly 1.2 million acres inside and around the national park, forcing evacuations and reshaping public understanding of how fire moves through lodgepole pine forests. More recently, wildfires earned Wyoming a FEMA major disaster declaration in 2024, underscoring that this risk is ongoing rather than historical. Drought compounds both hazards: prolonged dry periods parch grasslands, accelerate fire spread, and stress the ranching and agriculture that anchor the state's economy. Flooding, though less frequent, has also triggered federal declarations, particularly along rivers swollen by rapid snowmelt in spring. Tornadoes occur at low frequency but are not unknown on the eastern plains. Altogether, Wyoming's 45 FEMA disaster declarations — 28 fire-related incidents among them — reflect a state where preparedness must account for extreme cold, fire, and water stress simultaneously. Residents, especially those in rural areas far from emergency services, benefit most from maintaining robust home supplies, staying enrolled in local alert systems, and understanding seasonal hazard cycles before they arrive.
Extended winter storms knock out power for days — prepare to survive without heat.
Wildfires can spread faster than a car — pre-evacuation planning saves lives.
Drought strains municipal water supplies and dramatically raises wildfire risk.
Tornadoes can form within minutes and level a home — identify your safe room now.
This heavily forested, high-elevation region faces the greatest wildfire risk in the state, as demonstrated by the catastrophic 1988 Yellowstone fires, alongside severe winter storms that can cut off access for extended periods.
Extreme winter storms, avalanche danger, and spring flooding from rapid snowmelt are the primary threats here, with isolated communities particularly vulnerable when mountain passes close.
Drought and wildfire are the dominant hazards in this semi-arid basin, where dry conditions stress rangeland and periodically trigger fast-moving grass and brush fires.
High-wind winter blizzards pose the greatest risk along the I-80 corridor and open plains, while this region also sees the state's highest tornado frequency and occasional severe thunderstorms.
This area is susceptible to both wildfire during drought years and severe summer storms capable of producing flash flooding in creek and river drainages.
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The state's official emergency management agency — alerts, shelter info, and disaster assistance.
Wyoming emergency alerts are delivered through individual county notification systems, so residents should contact their county emergency manager to register, and all mobile users automatically receive FEMA Wireless Emergency Alerts on capable devices.
What natural disasters is Wyoming most at risk for?
Wyoming faces the highest risk from winter storms, which can produce life-threatening blizzards and road closures statewide. Wildfire and drought are rated medium risk and have caused significant destruction, particularly in forested western areas. Flooding occurs periodically, while tornadoes are possible but infrequent on the eastern plains.
How many times has Wyoming received a federal disaster declaration?
Wyoming has received 45 unique FEMA disaster declarations, including 15 major disaster declarations. Fire-related incidents account for the largest share of declarations, reflecting the state's ongoing wildfire exposure. The most recent major disaster declaration was issued for wildfires in 2024, confirming that this hazard remains active and consequential.
What should Wyoming residents keep in a winter emergency kit?
Wyoming's severe winters make a robust kit essential. Include at minimum three days of water and food, blankets or sleeping bags rated for subzero temperatures, a battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio, flashlights, extra medications, sand or kitty litter for vehicle traction, and a car emergency kit if you travel rural highways regularly.
How can Wyoming residents receive emergency alerts?
Residents should register for their county's local emergency notification system, as Wyoming relies on county-level platforms rather than a single statewide mass-notification service. All residents can also receive FEMA Wireless Emergency Alerts automatically on capable cell phones and should own a NOAA Weather Radio for severe weather and winter storm warnings.
Knowing your risks is step one. Two minutes with the readiness quiz tells you exactly where your preparation stands — and the free guide walks you through closing the gaps.