Low Risk Illinois  ·  Tornado / Flash Flooding

Whiteside County IL

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

5/ 10
Threat Score
Population
57
Area
685
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
6
federally declared

Whiteside County IL in Illinois faces tornado / flash flooding risk across its 685 square mile area. Sterling-Rock Falls serves this northwest Illinois county on the Rock River. Whiteside 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 5 / 10    Low Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Winter Storm
FEMA Flood Zone Low
Federally Declared Disasters 6
Last Major Event 2019 Mississippi River Flooding
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (815) 772-5189
Emergency Shelters 2 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes State and US highways

// County Profile

County Whiteside County IL
State Illinois (IL)
Population 57
Area 685 sq miles
FEMA Region Low

// Other Illinois Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

Quad Cities Nuclear Station IL
Nuclear Power Plant  ·  Cordova, IL  ·  Constellation Energy  ·  10-mi risk zone
8/10 High
Byron Nuclear Spent Fuel IL
Nuclear Power Plant  ·  Byron, IL  ·  Constellation Energy  ·  2-mi risk zone
7/10 High

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.