Moderate Risk Illinois  ·  Tornado / Flash Flooding

Winnebago County IL

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

5/ 10
Threat Score
Population
285
Area
513
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
5
federally declared

Winnebago County in northern Illinois anchored by Rockford is a major manufacturing center. The Rock River flows through Rockford creating significant flooding risk — the river has flooded repeatedly causing major damage. The county sits in a moderate tornado corridor and has experienced tornado events. Collins Aerospace and other major manufacturers make Winnebago County an important regional industrial hub for northern Illinois. Rockford serves as the regional emergency coordination hub for northern Illinois.

// 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    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Severe Storm
FEMA Flood Zone Moderate
Federally Declared Disasters 5
Last Major Event 2018 Tornado
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (779) 348-7070
Emergency Shelters 12 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-90 US-20 IL-2 IL-173

// County Profile

County Winnebago County IL
State Illinois (IL)
Population 285
Area 513 sq miles
FEMA Region Moderate

// Major Cities

Rockford IL

// Cities in This County

// 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.

Byron Nuclear Station IL
Nuclear Power Plant  ·  Byron, IL  ·  Constellation Energy  ·  10-mi risk zone
8/10 High

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