High Risk Kansas  ·  Tornado / Flash Flooding

Topeka KS

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  KANSAS

7 / 10
Threat Score
Population
126,587
Elevation
877
feet above sea level
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Flash Flooding
County FEMA Disasters
9
federally declared

Topeka the Kansas state capital was struck by one of the most destructive tornadoes in Kansas history on June 8 1966 when an F5 tornado cut a 22-mile path through the city killing 16 people and causing massive damage. Topeka sits in the heart of Tornado Alley with the flat Kansas terrain providing zero barriers. The Kansas River has flooded Topeka repeatedly. As state capital Topeka hosts critical government infrastructure requiring robust tornado-resilient emergency planning.

// 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 Score7 / 10   High
Primary HazardTornado / Flash Flooding
FEMA Flood ZoneHigh
County FEMA Declarations9
Last Major Event2019 Flooding

// Emergency Information

Emergency Phone (785) 368-3851
Evacuation RoutesI-70 I-470 US-75 KS-4
Elevation877 ft above sea level

// County Risk Profile

Shawnee County KS
Kansas · Tornado / Flash Flooding
View full county emergency preparedness profile →
7/10
High Risk