Moderate Risk Montana  ·  Wildfire / Flash Flooding

Cascade County MT

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

5/ 10
Threat Score
Population
81,366
Area
2698
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Wildfire / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
24
federally declared

Cascade County and Great Falls in north-central Montana face wildfire risk from the surrounding grasslands and forests during dry summer conditions. The Missouri River creates flooding risk and the county experiences severe winter storms that can isolate rural communities for days. Great Falls is home to Malmstrom Air Force Base — a key nuclear missile installation — making the county strategically significant.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 5 / 10    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Wildfire / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Winter Storm
FEMA Flood Zone Zone X (Moderate Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 24
Last Major Event Wildfire (August 2022)
Event Frequency Major event every 5–7 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (406) 454-6980
Emergency Shelters 10 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-15 North, I-15 South, US-87 East, US-89 North

// County Profile

County Cascade County MT
State Montana (MT)
Population 81,366
Area 2698 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone X (Moderate Risk)

// Major Cities

Great Falls MT

// Cities in This County

// Other Montana Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

💣
Malmstrom Air Force Base MT
Nuclear Weapons  ·  Great Falls  ·  US Air Force / 341st Missile Wing  ·  25-mi risk zone
9/10 Critical
🌊
Libby Dam MT
Major Dam  ·  Libby  ·  US Army Corps of Engineers  ·  100-mi risk zone
7/10 High

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.