Moderate Risk North Dakota  ·  Blizzard / Red River Flooding

Nelson County ND

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

6/ 10
Threat Score
Population
3
Area
982
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Blizzard / Red River Flooding
FEMA Disasters
7
federally declared

Nelson County ND in North Dakota faces blizzard / red river flooding risk across its 982 square mile area. Lakota serves this northeast North Dakota county near the Sheyenne River. Nelson serves as the county seat and regional emergency coordination hub.

// 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 6 / 10    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Blizzard / Red River Flooding
Secondary Hazard Tornado
FEMA Flood Zone Moderate
Federally Declared Disasters 7
Last Major Event 2019 Flooding
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (701) 247-2463
Emergency Shelters 3 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes State and US highways

// County Profile

County Nelson County ND
State North Dakota (ND)
Population 3
Area 982 sq miles
FEMA Region Moderate

// Other North Dakota Counties