Low Risk South Dakota  ·  Tornado / Blizzard

Buffalo County SD

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

5/ 10
Threat Score
Population
2
Area
476
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Blizzard
FEMA Disasters
6
federally declared

Buffalo County SD in South Dakota faces tornado / blizzard risk across its 476 square mile area. Gann Valley serves this small south-central South Dakota county. Buffalo serves as the county seat and regional emergency coordination hub.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Identify an interior room or storm shelter.
  • Monitor NOAA weather alerts continuously.
  • Keep emergency kit accessible at all times.
  • Prepare for sudden power outages.

// Recommended Supplies

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

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 5 / 10    Low Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Blizzard
Secondary Hazard Flash Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Low
Federally Declared Disasters 6
Last Major Event 2019 Blizzard
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (605) 293-3217
Emergency Shelters 2 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes State and US highways

// County Profile

County Buffalo County SD
State South Dakota (SD)
Population 2
Area 476 sq miles
FEMA Region Low

// Other South Dakota Counties