Moderate Risk South Dakota  ·  Tornado / Blizzard

Clay County SD

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

6/ 10
Threat Score
Population
14
Area
412
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Blizzard
FEMA Disasters
7
federally declared

Clay County SD in South Dakota faces tornado / blizzard risk across its 412 square mile area. Vermillion home to University of South Dakota serves this southeast county on the Missouri. Clay 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 6 / 10    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Blizzard
Secondary Hazard Red River Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Moderate
Federally Declared Disasters 7
Last Major Event 2019 Missouri River Flooding
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (605) 677-7103
Emergency Shelters 3 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes State and US highways

// County Profile

County Clay County SD
State South Dakota (SD)
Population 14
Area 412 sq miles
FEMA Region Moderate

// Major Cities

Vermillion SD

// Cities in This County

// Other South Dakota Counties