Moscow, Idaho: natural disaster risk
How exposed Moscow is to floods, storms and other hazards, from FEMA and NOAA records for Latah County.
Moscow is a city of 26,286 people in Latah County, Idaho. FEMA's National Risk Index rates Latah County very low for natural hazards overall, lower than most of the US. The costliest hazards there are inland flooding, wildfire and cold wave, with about $13.3 million in expected losses a year across the county. The weather service has logged 94 storm reports in the county since 1957, including 4 tornadoes and 33 floods. About 0.9% of homes in the county carry federal flood insurance.
Risk figures are for Latah County. FEMA National Risk Index December 2025; NOAA Storm Events; US Census Bureau ACS 2020 to 2024. Updated November 6, 2026.
Top risks in Moscow
Full Latah County report ›- Check the FEMA flood map for your address, and ask the seller or landlord about past flooding.
- Price a flood policy now. Most new federal policies take 30 days to start.
- Clear dry plants and debris within 5 feet of the house.
- Get home insurance quotes early; availability varies by area.
- Insulate pipes in outside walls, crawl spaces and garages.
- Know how to shut off the main water valve.
All hazards
| Hazard | Rating | A year |
|---|---|---|
| Inland flooding | $8M | |
| Wildfire | $2M | |
| Cold wave | $1M | |
| Heat wave | $492K | |
| Earthquake | $237K | |
| Strong wind | $207K | |
| Hail | $116K | |
| Tornado | $71K | |
| Lightning | $24K | |
| Winter weather | $15K | |
| Ice storm | $14K | |
| Landslide | $12K |
Homes in Moscow
Older homes and mobile homes usually take more damage in storms, floods and earthquakes. Ask about roof age, flood history and retrofits before you buy or rent.
Strongest tornadoes in Latah County
Common questions about Moscow
Is Moscow safe from natural disasters?
Moscow is in Latah County, which FEMA's National Risk Index rates very low overall, lower than most of the US. The biggest hazards are inland flooding, wildfire, cold wave. No place is free of risk, so check the flood map and insurance for any home you consider.
What natural disasters happen in Moscow?
By expected yearly losses in Latah County, the top hazards are inland flooding (Low), wildfire (Moderate), cold wave (Low). Latah County has been part of 14 federal disaster or emergency declarations for natural events.
Does Moscow get tornadoes?
Yes. NOAA records list 4 tornadoes in Latah County since 1950; the strongest was an F1 tornado on May 19, 1986. FEMA rates tornado risk in the county very low.
Do I need flood insurance in Moscow?
Standard home insurance does not cover floods. In Latah County, about 0.9% of homes have federal flood insurance, and FEMA rates inland flooding risk low. Check the FEMA flood map for your address and get a quote even outside a high-risk zone.