Moderate Risk Iowa  ·  Tornado / Flash Flooding

Cherokee County IA

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

6/ 10
Threat Score
Population
12
Area
578
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
7
federally declared

Cherokee County IA in Iowa faces tornado / flash flooding risk across its 578 square mile area. Cherokee serves this northwest Iowa county near the Little Sioux River. Cherokee 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 Tornado / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Blizzard
FEMA Flood Zone Moderate
Federally Declared Disasters 7
Last Major Event 2019 Tornado
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (712) 225-6744
Emergency Shelters 3 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes State and US highways

// County Profile

County Cherokee County IA
State Iowa (IA)
Population 12
Area 578 sq miles
FEMA Region Moderate

// Other Iowa Counties