This chapter is divided into four parts: hazard identification, hazard profiles, vulnerability assessment, and summary of key issues:

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1 3 RISK ASSESSMENT 44 CFR Requirement 201.6(c)(2): [The plan shall include] A risk assessment that provides the factual basis for activities proposed in the strategy to reduce losses from identified hazards. Local risk assessments must provide sufficient information to enable the jurisdiction to identify and prioritize appropriate mitigation actions to reduce losses from identified hazards. The risk assessment process identifies and profiles relevant hazards and assesses the exposure of lives, property, and infrastructure to these hazards. The goal of the risk assessment is to estimate the potential loss in Reno County, including loss of life, personal injury, property damage, and economic loss, from a hazard event. The risk assessment process allows communities in Reno County to better understand their potential risk from natural and man-made hazards and provides a framework for developing and prioritizing mitigation actions to reduce risk from future hazard events. The risk assessment for Reno County and its jurisdictions followed the methodology described in the FEMA publication 386-2, Understanding Your Risks: Identifying Hazards and Estimating Losses (2002), which includes a four-step process: Identify Hazards Profile Hazard Events Inventory Assets Estimate Losses This chapter is divided into four parts: hazard identification, hazard profiles, vulnerability assessment, and summary of key issues: Section 3.1 Hazard Identification identifies the hazards that threaten the planning area and describes why some hazards have been omitted from further consideration. Section 3.2 Hazard Profiles describes the location in the planning area, previous occurrences of hazard events, probability of future occurrence, and potential magnitude or severity for each identified hazard. Section 3.3 Vulnerability Assessment assesses the County s total exposure to natural and man-made hazards, considering critical facilities and other community assets at risk, and assessing growth and development trends. This section also describes vulnerability and estimates potential losses to structures in identified hazard areas, and addresses land use and development trends. This section includes steps 3 and 4 from above. Reno County, Kansas 3.1

2 3.1 Hazard Identification Requirement 201.6(c)(2)(i): [The risk assessment shall include a] description of the type of all natural hazards that can affect the jurisdiction Methodology The Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HMPC) reviewed data and discussed the impacts of each of the hazards recommended by FEMA for consideration, which are listed alphabetically below: Avalanche Coastal Erosion Coastal Storm Dam and Levee Failure Drought Earthquake Expansive Soils Extreme Heat Flood Hailstorm Hurricane Land Subsidence / Sinkhole Landslide Severe Winter Storm Tornado Tsunami Volcano Wildfire Windstorm In addition to reviewing the hazards recommended by FEMA for consideration, the HMPC also considered the following additional hazards that were included in the State of Kansas Hazard Mitigation Plan: Agricultural Infestation Expansive Soils Fog Hazardous Materials Major Disease Outbreak Soil Erosion & Dust Utility/Infrastructure Failure Data on the past impacts and future probability of these hazards in the Reno County planning area was collected from the following sources: Kansas Hazard Mitigation Plan (November 2007) Reno County Hazards Analysis Plan (August 2002) Information on past hazard events from the Spatial Hazard Event and Loss Database (SHELDUS), a component of the University of South Carolina Hazards Research Lab that compiles county-level hazard data for 18 different natural hazard event types Reno County, Kansas 3.2

3 Information on past extreme weather and climate events from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration s National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) Disaster declaration history from FEMA, the Public Entity Risk Institute, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency Disaster Declarations Information provided by members of the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee Various articles and publications available on the internet (sources are indicated where data is cited) The HMPC eliminated some hazards from further profiling because they do not occur in the planning area or their impacts were not considered significant in relation to other hazards. Table 3.1 lists these hazards and provides a brief explanation for their elimination. Table 3.1 Hazards Not Profiled in the Plan Hazard Avalanche Coastal Erosion Coastal Storm Hurricane Tsunami Volcano Radiological Terrorism Explanation for Omission There are no mountains in the planning area. Planning area is not near coastal areas. Planning area is not near coastal areas. Planning area is not near coastal areas. Planning area is not near coastal areas. There are no volcanic mountains in the planning area. Manmade hazard not profiled Manmade hazard not profiled The HMPC identified 20 natural and man-made hazards that significantly affect the planning area and organized these hazards to be consistent with the Kansas Hazard Mitigation Plan (2007). These hazards are listed below and profiled in further detail in the next sections. Agricultural Infestation Dam and Levee Failure Drought Disease Outbreak Earthquake Expansive Soils Extreme Heat Flood Fog Hailstorm Hazardous Materials Land Subsidence/Sinkhole Landslide Lightning Soil Erosion and Dust Tornado Utility/Infrastructure Failure Wildfire Windstorm Winter Storm Multi-Jurisdictional Risk Assessment For this multi-jurisdictional plan, the risk assessment assesses each jurisdiction s risks where they deviate from the risks facing the entire planning area. Reno County is a large County geographically (1,254 square miles) and is fairly uniform in terms of climate and topography as Reno County, Kansas 3.3

4 well as construction characteristics and development trends. Accordingly, overall hazards and vulnerability do not vary greatly across the planning area for most hazards. Weather-related hazards, such as drought, extreme heat, hailstorm, lightning, tornado, windstorm, and winter storm, affect the entire planning area. In addition, as the individual hazard profiles reveal, the hazards of agricultural infestation, soil erosion and dust, expansive soils, land subsidence, and earthquake also affect the entire planning area and all participating jurisdictions with relatively the same level of risk. The hazards that do vary across the planning area include dam and levee failure, flood, and wildfire. In Section 3.1, Hazard Identification, Table 3.2 indicates with a checkmark that all jurisdictions in the planning area have some risk to each of the hazards profiled in this plan. In Section 3.2, Hazard Profiles, the Geographic Location section discusses how the hazard varies among jurisdictions across the planning area. The Previous Occurrences section lists the best available data on where past events have occurred and the associated losses to particular jurisdictions. Section Community Asset Inventory, describes critical facilities and other community assets by jurisdiction. Section Vulnerability by Hazard, identifies structures and estimates potential losses by jurisdiction where data is available and hazard areas are identified for hazards of moderate and high planning significance. The previous chapter, Chapter 2 Planning Area Profile and Capabilities, discussed the existing mitigation capabilities of each jurisdiction, such as plans and policies, personnel, and financial resources, which are currently used to reduce hazard losses. For the school districts that participated in the development of this plan, specific assets are included in the city or county maps and risk assessments in which those specific assets are located. Please refer to the school district maps in chapter 2 as a reference for school district boundaries. For school districts, the risk goes beyond the school buildings themselves as hazards can affect their tax base, the resident locations of attending students, bus routes, etc. With all of these considerations, all hazards that affect the city and or county areas that the school district boundaries overlap also apply to the school districts that occur within those boundaries. Please also note that while South Hutchinson and Turon did not officially participate in the development of this plan, the risk assessment provides information on these geographic areas to ensure the entire planning area within Reno County is assessed as school district boundaries cross in to these two cities. Reno County, Kansas 3.4

5 Table 3.2 Hazards Identified for Each Participating Jurisdiction Reno County Abbyville Arlington Buhler Haven Hazards Agricultural Infestation Dam and Levee Failure Drought Disease Outbreak Earthquake Expansive Soils Extreme Heat Flood Fog Hailstorm Hazardous Materials Land Subsidence/ Sinkhole Landslide Lightning Soil Erosion and Dust Tornado Utility Failure Wildfire Windstorm Winter Storm Hutchinson Disaster Declaration History Langdon One method used by the HMPC to identify hazards was to examine events that triggered federal and/or state disaster declarations. Federal and/or state declarations may be granted when the severity and magnitude of an event surpasses the ability of the local government to respond and recover. Disaster assistance is supplemental and sequential. When the local government s capacity has been surpassed, a state disaster declaration may be issued, allowing for the provision of state assistance. Should the disaster be so severe that both the local and state governments capacities are exceeded; a federal emergency or disaster declaration may be issued allowing for the provision of federal assistance. The federal government may issue a disaster declaration through FEMA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and/or the Small Business Administration. FEMA also issues emergency declarations, which are more limited in scope and do not include the long-term federal recovery Reno County, Kansas 3.5 Nickerson Partridge Plevna Pretty Prairie South Hutchinson Sylvia Turon Willowbrook

6 programs of major disaster declarations. Determinations for declaration type are based on scale and type of damages and institutions or industrial sectors affected. A USDA disaster declaration certifies that the affected county has suffered at least a 30 percent loss in one or more crop or livestock areas and provides affected producers with access to lowinterest loans and other programs to help mitigate disaster impacts. In accordance with the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act, counties neighboring those receiving disaster declarations are named as contiguous disaster counties and are eligible for the same assistance. Table 3.3 lists federal disaster declarations received by Reno County. Many of the disaster events were regional or statewide; therefore, reported costs are not accurate reflections of losses to Reno County. Of the ten major disaster declarations, seven were for severe storms, tornadoes and flooding. Two were severe winter storms and was for a Fire Management Assistance Declaration. Table 3.3 Reno County Disaster Declarations, Disaster Number Date Declared /25/2009 (Incident Period 4/25/2009 to 5/16/2009) /24/2009 (Incident Period 3/26/ to 3/29/2009) Disaster Description Severe Storms, Flooding, Straight-line Winds, and Tornadoes Severe Winter Storm and Record and Near Record Snow /09/2008 Severe Storms, Flooding, Tornadoes Counties Involved Anderson, Barber, Bourbon, Butler, Chase, Cherokee, Coffey, Crawford, Elk, Finney, Greenwood, Harper, Harvey, Kingman, Labette, Linn, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Montgomery, Morris, Neosho, Reno, Rice, Sumner, Wabaunsee, Wilson Barber, Barton, Butler, Chase, Chautauqua, Clark, Coffey, Comanche, Cowley, Dickinson, Edwards, Elk, Grant, Greenwood, Harvey, Haskell, Kearney, Kingman, Kiowa, Lyon, Marion, McPherson, Meade, Pratt, Reno, Rice, Seward, Stafford, Stanton, Stevens, Sumner, Woodson Barber, Barton, Bourbon, Brown, Butler, Chautauqua, Cherokee, Clark, Clay, Comanche, Cowley, Crawford, Decatur, Dickinson, Edwards, Elk, Ellis, Ellsworth, Franklin, Gove, Graham, Harper, Haskell, Hodgeman, Jackson, Jewell, Kingman, Kiowa, Lane, Linn, Logan, Mitchell, Montgomery, Ness, Norton, Osborne, Pawnee, Phillips, Pratt, Reno, Republic, Riley, Rooks, Rush, Saline, Seward, Sheridan, Smith, Stafford, Sumner, Thomas, Trego, Wallace and Wilson Counties /01/2008 Winter Storms Atchison, Barber, Barton, Brown, Butler, Chase, Cherokee, Clark, Clay, Cloud, Comanche, Crawford, Dickinson, Doniphan, Edwards, Ellis, Ellsworth, Ford, Geary, Graham, Gove, Harvey, Hodgeman, Jackson, Jefferson, Jewell, Kingman, Kiowa, Labette, Leavenworth, Lincoln, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, McPherson, Miami, Mitchell, Morris, Nemaha, Osage, Osborne, Ottawa, Pawnee, Phillips, Pottawatomie, Pratt, Reno, Republic, Rice, Riley, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Saline, Sedgwick, Shawnee, Sheridan, Smith, Stafford, Thomas, Wabaunsee, Wallace, Washington, and Woodson Counties. Estimated Damage in Kansas ($) $13,173,860 $14,808,826 $27,058,127 $171,118, /06/2007 Severe Storms, Flooding, Barton, Brown, Chase, Cherokee, Clay, Cloud, Comanche, Cowley, Dickinson, Doniphan, Douglas, Edwards, Ellsworth, $62,000,000 Reno County, Kansas 3.6

7 Disaster Number Date Declared Disaster Description Tornadoes /08/2005 Severe Winter Storms, Heavy Rains, and Flooding Counties Involved Harper, Harvey, Jackson, Kingman, Kiowa, Leavenworth, Lincoln, Lyon, Marshall, McPherson, Morris, Nemaha, Osage, Osborne, Ottawa, Pawnee, Phillips, Pottawatomie, Pratt, Reno, Rice, Riley, Saline, Shawnee, Smith, Stafford, Sumner, Wabaunsee, Washington Anderson, Atchison, Barber, Butler, Chase, Chautauqua, Clark, Coffey, Comanche, Cowley, Crawford, Douglas, Elk, Franklin, Greenwood, Harper, Harvey, Jefferson, Kingman, Lyon, Marion, Morris, Osage, Pratt, Reno, Rice, Sedgwick, Shawnee, Sumner, Wabaunsee, Woodson, and Wyandotte Counties. Estimated Damage in Kansas ($) $84,447, /04/1999 Tornadoes and Severe Storms /22/1993 Flooding, Severe Storms 403 9/28/1973 Severe Storms, Tornadoes, Flooding 378 5/2/1973 Severe Storms, Flooding Reno, Sedgwick and Sumner Counties Atchison, Barton, Brown, Chase, Cherokee, Clay, Cloud, Crawford, Dickinson, Doniphan, Douglas, Edwards, Ellis, Ellsworth, Geary, Graham, Harvey, Hodgeman, Jackson, Jefferson, Jewell, Johnson, Lane, Leavenworth, Lincoln, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, McPherson, Mitchell, Morris, Nemaha, Ness, Osage, Osborne, Ottawa, Pawnee, Pottawatomie, Reno, Republic, Rice, Riley, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Saline, Sedgwick, Shawnee, Sheridan, Smith, Stafford, Sumner, Thomas, Trego, Wabaunsee, Washington, Wyandotte Atchison, Barber, Barton, Brown, Butler, Chase, Clay, Cloud, Coffey, Comanche, Cowley, Dickinson, Doniphan, Douglas, Edwards, Ellsworth, Franklin, Geary, Greenwood, Harper, Harvey, Jackson, Jefferson, Kingman, Kiowa, Leavenworth, Lincoln, Linn, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, McPherson, Miami, Morris, Nemaha, Osage, Ottawa, Pawnee, Pottawatomie, Pratt, Reno, Republic, Rice, Riley, Saline, Sedgwick, Shawnee, Stafford, Sumner, Wabaunsee, Washington, Woodson, Wyandotte Atchison, Barber, Barton, Bourbon, Brown, Butler, Chautauqua, Cherokee, Clark, Coffey, Crawford, Dickinson, Doniphan, Douglas, Edwards, Ellsworth, Ford, Franklin, Gray, Greenwood, Harper, Harvey, Haskell, Hodgeman, Jackson, Jefferson, Kingman, Kiowa, Labette, Leavenworth, Lincoln, Linn, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, McPherson, Meade, Miami, Montgomery, Morris, Nemaha, Ness, Osage, Osborne, Ottawa, Pawnee, Pottawatomie, Pratt, Reno, Republic, Rice, Rush, Russell, Saline, Sedgwick, Seward, Shawnee, Stafford, Stevens, Sumner, Wabaunsee, Washington, Woodson, Wyandotte $10,883,676 $137,038,990 $18,851,282 $8,829, /23/1965 Flooding Barton, Butler, Chase, Edwards, Finney, Ford, Grant, Gray, Greenwood, Hamilton, Harvey, Kearny, Lyon, Marion, McPherson, Pawnee, Reno, Rice, Sedgwick, Stafford, Stanton $6,566,805 Source: Federal Emergency Management Agency, Public Entity Risk Institute, Kansas Hazard Mitigation Plan. Table 3.4 lists U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) disaster declarations and their causes for Reno County from the period 2005 to Reno County, Kansas 3.7

8 Table 3.4 USDA Disaster Declarations in Reno County USDA Disaster Number Date Drought Heat Excessive Moisture Hail High Winds Cause Lightning Tornadoes Severe Storms M x x S x x x x x x S x x x M x x x S x x Source: USDA Farm Service Agency, Hazard Profiles Winter Storms Requirement 201.6(c)(2)(i): [The risk assessment shall include a] description of the location and extent of all natural hazards that can affect the jurisdiction. The plan shall include information on previous occurrences of hazard events and on the probability of future hazard events Methodology Each hazard identified in Section 3.1, Hazard Identification, is profiled individually in this section in alphabetical order for easier reference. The level of information presented in the profiles varies by hazard based on the information available. With each update of this plan, new information will be incorporated to provide for better evaluation and prioritization of the hazards that affect Reno County. The sources used to collect information for these profiles include those mentioned in Section as well as those cited individually in each hazard section. Detailed profiles for each of the identified hazards include information on the following characteristics of the hazard: Hazard Description This section consists of a general description of the hazard and the types of impacts it may have on a community. It also includes a ranking to indicate typical warning times and duration of hazard events. Definitions for these rankings are included in Table 3.5. Geographic Location This section describes the geographic extent or location of the hazard in the planning area. Where available, maps are used to indicate the areas of the planning area that are vulnerable to the subject hazard. Reno County, Kansas 3.8

9 Previous Occurrences This section includes information on historic incidents and their impacts based upon the sources described in Section 3.1 Hazard Identification and the information provided by the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee. Probability of Future Occurrence The frequency of past events is used to gauge the likelihood of future occurrences. Where possible, the probability or chance of occurrence was calculated based on historical data. Probability was determined by dividing the number of events observed by the number of years and multiplying by 100. This gives the percent chance of the event happening in any given year. An example would be three droughts occurring over a 30-year period, which suggests a 10 percent chance of a drought occurring in any given year. The probability was assigned a rank as defined in Table 3.5. Magnitude/Severity The magnitude of the impact of a hazard event (past and perceived) is related directly to the vulnerability of the people, property, and the environment it affects. This is a function of when the event occurs, the location affected, the resilience of the community, and the effectiveness of the emergency response and disaster recovery efforts. The magnitude of each profiled hazard is classified in the following manner: Level 4-Catastrophic More than 50 percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of facilities for more than 30 days; and/or multiple deaths Level 3-Critical percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of facilities for at least two weeks; and/or injuries and/or illnesses result in permanent disability Level 2-Limited percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of facilities for more than a week; and/or injuries/illnesses do not result in permanent disability Level 1-Negligible Less than 10 percent of property severely damaged, shutdown of facilities and services for less than 24 hours; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable with first aid Hazard Summary To maintain a consistent reporting format, the Reno County Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HMPC) used the methodology from the MitigationPlan.com planning tool to prioritize the hazards. This prioritization was based on a calculated priority risk index (CPRI) that considered four elements of risk: probability, magnitude/severity, warning time, and duration. Table 3.5 defines the rankings for each element of risk. The CPRI for each hazard is provided in Table 3.6. Reno County, Kansas 3.9

10 Table 3.5 Calculated Priority Risk Index (CPRI) Element Definitions Element/Level Characteristics Probability* 4 - Highly Likely Event is probable within the calendar year. Event has up to 1 in 1 year chance of occurring (1/1=100%) History of events is greater than 33% likely per year. Event is "Highly Likely" to occur 3 Likely Event is probable within the next three years. Event has up to 1 in 3 years chance of occurring (1/3=33%) History of events is greater than 20% but less than or equal to 33% likely per year Event is "Likely" to occur 2 - Probable Event is probable within the next five years. Event has up to 1 in 5 years chance of occurring (1/5=20%) History of events is greater than 10% but less than or equal to 20% likely per year Event could "Possibly" occur 1 Unlikely Event is possible within the next 10 years Event has up to 1 in 10 years chance of occurring (1/10=10%) History of events is less than or equal to 10% likely per year Event is "Unlikely" but is possible of occurring Magnitude / Severity** 4 - Catastrophic Multiple deaths Complete shutdown of facilities for 30 or more days More than 50 percent of property is severely damaged 3 Critical Injuries and/or illnesses result in permanent disability Complete shutdown of critical facilities for at least two weeks percent of property is severely damaged 2 Limited Injuries and/or illnesses do not result in permanent disability Complete shutdown of critical facilities for more than one week percent of property is severely damaged 1 - Negligible Injuries and/or illnesses are treatable with first aid Minor quality of life lost Shutdown of critical facilities and services for 24 hours or less Less than 10 percent of property is severely damaged Warning Time 4 Less Than 6 Hours Hours Hours Hours Duration 4 More Than 1 Week 3 Less Than 1 Week 2 Less Than 1 Day 1 Less Than 6 Hours Source: MitigationPlan.com * Based on history, using the definitions given, the likelihood of future events is quantified. ** According to the severity associated with past events or the probable worst case scenario possible in the state. Using the rankings described in the table above, the formula used to determine each hazard s CPRI, which includes weighting factors defined by MitigationPlan.com, was: (Probability x.45) + (Magnitude/Severity x.30) + (Warning Time x.15) + (Duration x.10) = CPRI Based on their CPRI scores, the hazards were separated into three categories of planning significance: High ( ), Moderate ( ), and Low ( ). Reno County, Kansas 3.10

11 These terms relate to the level of planning analysis to be given to the particular hazard in the risk assessment process and are not meant to suggest that a hazard would have only limited impact. In order to focus on the most critical hazards, those assigned a level of significant or moderate were given more extensive attention in the remainder of this analysis (e.g., quantitative analysis or loss estimation), while those with a low planning significance were addressed in more general or qualitative ways. Table 3.6 summarizes the results of the completed Hazard Profiles using this methodology. Table 3.6 Hazard Profile Summary for Reno County Hazard Type Probability Magnitude Warning Time Duration CPRI Planning Significance Tornado High Utility/Infrastructure High Failure Flood High Winter Storm High Hazardous Materials High Wind Storm Moderate Hail Storm Moderate Disease Outbreak Moderate Wildfire Moderate Levee Failure Moderate Extreme Heat Moderate Land Moderate Subsidence/Sinkhole Agricultural Infestation Moderate Soil Erosion / Dust Low Lightning Low Earthquake Low Drought Low Expansive Soils Low Dam Failure Low Fog Low Landslide Low Source: Reno County HMPC Agricultural Infestation Description Agricultural infestation is the naturally occurring infection of crops or livestock with insects, vermin, or diseases that render the crops or livestock unfit for consumption or use. Because of Kansas substantial agricultural industry and related facilities and locations, the potential for infestation of crops or livestock pose a significant risk to the economy of the state. Reno County, Kansas 3.11

12 Some level of agricultural infestation is normal for Kansas farmers and ranchers. The concern is when the level of an infestation escalates suddenly, or a new infestation appears, overwhelming normal control efforts. The levels and types of agricultural infestation appear to vary by many factors, including cycles of heavy rains and drought. One of the key concerns regarding this hazard is the potential introduction of a rapid and economically devastating foreign animal disease, such as foot and mouth disease and bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) disease, to Kansas. Because Kansas is a major cattle state, with cattle raised locally as well as imported into the state, the potential for highly contagious diseases such as these is a continuing, significant threat to the economy of the state. The loss of milk production, abortion, decrease in production, and other lasting problems resulting from an outbreak could cause continuous and severe economic losses, widespread unemployment, and potential civil disorder. It would affect not only farmers, ranchers, and butchers, but also support and related industries. In 2002, the state experienced a foot and mouth scare. While the disease was later determined to not be foot and mouth, the episode clearly demonstrated the level of concern and the importance of being able to quickly respond to such a disease and to be able to quickly quarantine, treat, and/or destroy infected animals. In 2003, the first confirmed domestic case of BSE disease was reported in Washington State and required quarantining and/or destruction of several herds. These episodes illustrate the vulnerability of Kansas to such an infestation hazard. In Reno County, cattle and milk production averaged over $42 million per year from (Institute for Policy and Social Research, University of Kansas, January, 2009). The importance of this agricultural sector makes the potential for a contagious disease outbreak in livestock a continuing, significant threat to the economy of the County. Economically important crops in Kansas are also subject to various types of infestation. In particular, wheat is susceptible to leaf rust, wheat streak mosaic, barley yellow dwarf virus, strawbreaker, and tan spot. Sorghum losses can occur when a crop is infected with sooty stripe early in the growing season. Gray leaf spot is a growing problem for corn crops. The average value of crop harvests in Reno County from 1990 to 2006 was over $457 million (Institute for Policy and Social Research, University of Kansas, January, 2009). The significance of this agricultural sector in the local economy makes crop infestation a serious concern. Infestation is not only a risk to crops in the field. Insect infestation can cause major losses to stored grain. It is estimated that damage to stored grain by the lesser grain borer, rice weevil, red flour beetle, and rusty grain beetle costs the United States about $500 million annually. Warning Time: Level 1 More than 24 hours Duration: Level 4 More than one week Reno County, Kansas 3.12

13 Geographic Location The agricultural land in the entire planning area is subject to agricultural infestation. According to the 2007 Kansas Farm Facts, there are approximately 1,540 farms in Reno County. Ninetytwo percent of the 803,200 acres in Reno County are used for agricultural purposes, such as pasture for livestock grazing or fields planted with crops. In 2007, 375,380 of those acres were harvested for a total value of crops harvested at $80,818,700. Previous Occurrences Significant wheat crop losses due to these diseases are well documented in various areas of Kansas. In 2007 approximately 196,700 acres of wheat were harvested in Reno County. Sorghum losses can occur when a crop is infested with sooty stripe early in the growing season. In 2007 approximately, 52,600 acres of sorghum were harvested for grain, and 33,600 acres of corn were harvested. Gray leaf spot is a growing problem for corn crops. Infestation is not only a risk to crops in the field. Insect infestation can cause major losses to stored grain. It is estimated that damage to stored grain by the lesser grain borer, rice weevil, red flour beetle, and rusty grain beetle costs the United Stated about $500 million annually. Statewide cumulative disease losses for the 2007 wheat crop were estimated at 17.8 percent of the crop (65.1 million bushels) (see Table 3.7). This estimate exceeds the 20 year average of percent loss and is the greatest cumulative loss since 1995 when foliar diseases and barley yellow dwarf virus were the primary contributors to a 20.4 percent loss. In 2007, leaf rust, which was epidemic statewide, made up about 80 percent of the total disease loss estimate. The Septoria leaf disease complex was responsible for 1.8 percent of the loss followed by tan spot with 1.3 percent. Barley yellow dwarf, stripe rust, scab, and powdery mildew had estimates of 0.2 percent each and were occasionally found at significant levels. Scab head disease was the only disease with an incline in 2008; the others were either the same or had a decline. Table 3.7 Rankings for 2008 Wheat Losses and Comparisons (percent of yield) Disease Year Average Leaf Rust Septoria Complex Tan Spot Powdery Mildew Barley Yellow Dwarf Scab Stripe Rust Bunt And Loose Smut Soil Borne Mosaic And Spindle Streak Complex Wheat Streak Complex Snow Mold Root And Crown Rots Take All Bacterial Leaf Blight Stem Rust Strawbreaker Reno County, Kansas 3.13

14 Disease Year Average Ceph Stripe American Wheat Striate Total Source: Kansas State Department of Agriculture, Kansas Cooperative Plant Disease Survey Report: Preliminary 2008 Kansas Wheat Disease Loss Estimates, According to the USDA Risk Management Agency, insured wheat losses in Reno County as a result of agricultural infestation from 2005 to 2008 totaled $147,566 as detailed in Table 3.8 Table 3.8 Claims Paid in Reno County for Crop Loss as a Result of Agricultural Infestation Year Crop Hazard Claims Paid ($) 2005 Wheat Plant Disease 16, Wheat Plant Disease 7, Wheat Plant Disease 40, Wheat Plant Disease 83,767 Total 147,566 Source: USDA Risk Management Agency, 2009 In addition, a campylobacteriosis outbreak associated with unpasteurized milk occurred in Reno & Butler Counties between August and December of Reno County s unpasteurized products were implicated as the cause if illness in 25 individuals.(kdhe Report dated 2007) Probability of Future Occurrences Some form of agricultural infestation occurs every year. However, most occurrences are within normal control capabilities. Probable: Level 2 Event is probable within the next five years. Magnitude/Severity According to the 2007 Kansas Agricultural Statistics from the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, there are 732,000 acres classified as farm land in Reno County. This represents 92 percent of the total acres in the County. Of those, 375,380 were acres harvested in In 2007, the value of crops harvested in Reno County was $80,818,700 and the value of cattle and milk production was $52,019,000. Limited: Level percent of property severely damaged shutdown of facilities for more than a week; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable do not result in permanent disability Reno County, Kansas 3.14

15 Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 2.05 Moderate Dam and Levee Failure Description The Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Water Resources defines a state-regulated dam as any artificial barrier including appurtenant works with the ability to impound water, wastewater, or other liquids that has a height of 25 feet or more; or has a height of six feet or greater and also has the capacity to impound 50 or more acre feet. The height of the dam is measured from the downstream toe to the top of the dam if a watercourse is affected or from the lowest elevation of the outside limit of the dam to the top of the dam for barriers that do not extend across a stream or watercourse. Dam failure can be caused by simple structural failure, or any combination of the following factors: earthquake flood conditions leading to overtopping inadequate spillway capacity internal erosion improper design improper maintenance arson negligent operation failure of upstream dams The failure of dams or levees can result in injuries, loss of life, and damage to property and the environment. While levees are built solely for flood protection, dams often serve multiple purposes, one of which may be flood control. Severe flooding and other storms can increase the potential that dams and levees will be damaged and fail as a result of the physical force of the flood waters or overtopping. Dams and levees are usually engineered to withstand a flood with a computed risk of occurrence. If a larger flood occurs, then that structure will likely be overtopped. If during the overtopping, the dam fails or is washed out, the water behind is released as a flash flood. Failed dams can create floods that are catastrophic to life and property, in part because of the tremendous energy of the released water. The hazard potential for dam failure is classified according to the following definitions accepted by the Interagency Committee on Dam Safety: Reno County, Kansas 3.15

16 Low Hazard Potential A dam located in an area where results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner s property. Significant Hazard Potential A dam located in an area where results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or other impacts. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be located in areas with population and significant infrastructure. High Hazard Potential A dam located in an area where failure could result in any of the following: extensive loss of life, damage to more than one home, damage to industrial or commercial facilities, interruption of a public utility serving a large number of customers, damage to traffic on high-volume roads that meet the requirements for high hazard or a highvolume railroad line, inundation of a frequently used recreation facility serving a relatively large number of persons, or two or more individual hazards described for significant hazard dams Speed of onset depends largely on the causal factors. Dam failure can occur in as little as a few minutes or slowly over the course of many months; warning time will vary accordingly. In the event of a catastrophic failure of a large dam, evacuation time at locations directly downstream would be extremely brief. Floodplain characteristics largely determine the available warning time for locations further downstream but overall warning time is typically 12 to 24 hours. Duration of high water conditions that result from dam failure depends on the capacity and stage of the reservoir at time of breach as well as the severity of the breach, but is generally less than one week. Warning Time (Dam): Level hours Duration (Dam): Level 1 Less than 6 hours The HMPC decided on levee failure that the warning time could be less than 6 hours, and if it were to fail it could take more than a week for the water to go down. This would be based on a severe flash flood event over the 100 year flood event. Warning Time (Levee): Level 4 less than six hours Duration (Levee): Level 3 More than one week Geographic Location Dams Data from the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Water Structures Program, indicates that Reno County has 18 state regulated dams. These 18 dams are all low hazard risk and there are not any significant or high hazard dams in the County. There is a high hazard dam called Lake Reno County, Kansas 3.16

17 Darrynane, in central Stafford County to the west of Reno County. It is located on the Rattlesnake Creek that leads to Lake Darrynane. This dam would not affect Reno County. Figure 3.1 shows the locations of state-regulated dams in Reno County. Figure 3.1 Dams in Reno County Reno County, Kansas 3.17

18 Levees The levees in Reno County are along the Arkansas River, Cow Creek and Plum Creek. The levees were constructed to provide protection from the 500-year flood and protect the City s of Hutchinson, South Hutchinson (Figure 3.2) and Willowbrook (Figure 3.3). They are all owned by the City of Hutchinson. Under a joint effort between Hutchinson, South Hutchinson, Willowbrook and Reno County, they are currently in the process of having the levees certified by FEMA under the Previously Accredited Levees (PAL) agreement. The levee system begins about a mile west of Hutchinson and intercepts Cow Creek northwest of the City and carries floodwaters from Cow Creek south to the Arkansas River. Then the combined creek and river are confined between levees on both side of the river and carry floodwaters past the Hutchinson and South Hutchinson. The design flow for the Cow Creek diversion canal is 30,000 cfs and the design flow for the Arkansas River levees is 58,500 cfs. The levees are over 26 miles, including a ring levee around Willowbrook. In the County, there are other levees that are owned by individual drainage districts. These levees are not shown on the FIRM s as providing protection from the 100-year floodplain. Figure 3.2 Levees in Hutchinson and South Hutchinson Reno County, Kansas 3.18

19 Figure 3.3 Levees in Willowbrook FEMA s Flood Insurance Study and Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Reno County was revised on July 19, The map number is 20155C0000 with panels printed 25 through 875. The following panels show the levees providing the 100-year level of protection in Hutchinson, South Hutchinson, and Willowbrook as being Shaded X Flood Zone located in the 500-year event. Reno County, Kansas 3.19

20 Figure 3.4 Reno County FIRM Panel # 20155C0280D Reno County, Kansas 3.20

21 Figure 3.5 Reno County FIRM Panel # 20155C0285D Reno County, Kansas 3.21

22 Figure 3.6 Reno County FIRM Panel # 20155C0290D Reno County, Kansas 3.22

23 Figure 3.7 Reno County FIRM Panel # 20155C0295D Previous Occurrences There is no known history of dam failure in Reno County. A nine mile stretch of a levee in Drainage District #3 failed in torrential spring rains in May Drainage District #3 maintains the south side of the Arkansas River from the Sedgwick County line to Yoder Road in Reno County. Thousands of acres of land were flooded when the Arkansas River breached its levee in five places. Whole sections, one as large as 600 feet in Reno County, Kansas 3.23

24 length, were washed out. Repairs were made to some of the levees, but authorities worry they may not hold against another major flood. There were no houses or buildings flooded. Probability of Future Occurrences Using the methodology adopted for natural hazards in this plan, the probability of dam breach in Reno County is unlikely based on the past performances of these structures during flood events. However, because dam failure is a manmade hazard, the methodology for calculating probability based on past occurrences does not necessarily reflect the actual risk of future occurrence. Further information on this risk is unknown. Unlikely (Dam): Level 1 History of events is less than 10 percent likely per year Based on the levee failure in the spring of 2007 the probability is possible. Possible (Levee): Level 2 Event is probable within the next five years. Magnitude/Severity Most dams in Reno County are rated as low hazard and present little or no threat to the people and property of Reno County. However, future development in areas downstream from these dams could increase the level of risk they present. Negligible (Dam): Level 1 Less than 10 percent of property is severely damaged Damage or failure to the levee in Hutchinson, South Hutchinson and Willowbrook could be critical in magnitude. Critical (Levee): Level percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of facilities for at least two weeks; and/or injuries and/or illnesses result in permanent disability Hazard Summary Levee Failure Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 2.7 Moderate Dam Failure Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 1.15 Low Reno County, Kansas 3.24

25 3.2.4 Disease Outbreak Description While there are a number of biological diseases/agents that are of concern to the State of Kansas, the ones that are being followed most closely and are addressed in Kansas State Hazard Mitigation Plan are influenza, pandemic influenza, and West Nile virus. Influenza Influenza (flu) is a viral infection of the nose, throat, bronchial tubes, and lungs. There are two main types of virus: A and B. Each type includes many different strains, which tend to change each year. Influenza occurs most often in the winter months. Illnesses resembling influenza may occur in the summer months, but they are usually due to other viruses. Influenza is highly contagious and is easily transmitted through contact with droplets from the nose and throat of an infected person during coughing and sneezing. Typical symptoms include headache, fever, chills, cough, and body aches. Although most people are ill for only a few days, some have a more serious illness, such as pneumonia, and may need to be hospitalized. Anyone can get influenza, but it is most serious in the elderly and people with chronic illnesses such as cancer, emphysema, or diabetes or weak immune systems. Thousands of people die each year in the United States from flu or related complications. Pandemic Influenza A pandemic is a global disease outbreak. A pandemic flu is a virulent human flu that causes a global outbreak, or pandemic, of serious illness. A flu pandemic occurs when a new influenza virus emerges for which people have little or no immunity, and for which there is no vaccine. This disease spreads easily person-to-person, causes serious illness, and can sweep across the country and around the world in very short time. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has been working closely with other countries and the World Health Organization to strengthen systems to detect outbreaks of influenza that might cause a pandemic and to assist with pandemic planning and preparation. Health professionals are currently concerned by the possibility of an avian (bird) flu pandemic associated with a highly pathogenic avian H5N1 virus. Since 2003, avian influenza has been spreading through Asia. A growing number of human H5N1 cases contracted directly from handling infected poultry have been reported in Asia, Europe, and Africa, and more than half the infected people have died. There has been no sustained human-to-human transmission of the disease, but the concern is that H5N1 will evolve into a virus capable of human-to-human transmission. An especially severe influenza pandemic could lead to high levels of illness, death, social disruption, and economic loss. Impacts could range from school and business closings to the Reno County, Kansas 3.25

26 interruption of basic services such as public transportation, health care, and the delivery of food and essential medicines. West Nile Virus West Nile Virus was first detected in the United States in 1999 (in New York) and in Kansas in The virus is only spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes. Mosquitoes become infected by biting a bird that carries the virus. It is not typically spread from person to person (e.g., through kissing or touching) or from birds to humans. In a very small number of cases, the virus has spread through blood transfusions, organ transplants, breastfeeding, and during pregnancy from mother to baby. Experts believe the virus is now a seasonal epidemic that flares up in the summer and continues into the fall. Most people infected with West Nile virus do not become ill. People with a mild infection may experience fever, headache, eye pain, muscle aches, joint pain, a rash on the trunk, and swollen lymph nodes. In severe cases, symptoms include severe muscle weakness, inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), paralysis, and coma. In rare cases the infection may be fatal, particularly in the elderly and people with other medical conditions. There is no vaccine and no specific treatment for West Nile virus. Overall warning time for major disease outbreaks is generally more than one day, and the duration of outbreaks is typically more than one week. Warning Time: Level 1 More than 24 hours Duration: Level 4 More than one week Geographic Location The entire planning area is susceptible to influenza, pandemic influenza, and West Nile virus. This densely populated area is more susceptible to the diseases that are transmitted person to person: influenza and pandemic influenza. Stagnant pools of water, which can be found in all parts of the state, are popular breeding grounds for mosquitoes that may carry West Nile virus. Previous Occurrences Influenza is an annual occurrence in Kansas. According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, 107 deaths were directly attributed to influenza for the flu seasons , , , and , for an average of 26 deaths per year. Influenza-like Illness activity during the season were more severe than what was seen during the previous three seasons, with the strongest period of peak activity stretching from February through early March. It was the highest rate of ILI seen in Kansas since the atypical Reno County, Kansas 3.26

27 season, when high morbidity struck Kansas in December. The number of influenza deaths was the highest on record in Kansas during the season & these higher rates were also seen nationwide. (Source: KDHE, Kansas Influenza Surveillance, ) There were 238 reported cases of West Nile Virus in Kansas between 2002 and October 2, The year with the most cases was 2003 with 91. At least 11 deaths were attributed to the virus over this time period. In July 2006 a 72-year-old and a 57-year-old were hospitalized with West Nile virus in Reno County. (Source: Probability of Future Occurrences Influenza and West Nile happen every year. Pandemic influenza s recurrence interval is roughly every 30 years. The HMPC decided that some form of disease outbreak would likely occur in the next three years. Likely: Level 3 Event is probable within the next three years Magnitude/Severity Although some form of major disease outbreak occurs every year, most instances do not affect a large number of people. However, for purposes of this plan, the less frequent pandemic influenza was used to classify the magnitude. In this worst-case scenario, effects could be devastating. Critical: Level 3 Illnesses or deaths, complete shutdown of facilities for two weeks Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 2.8 Moderate Drought Description Drought is generally defined as a condition of moisture levels significantly below normal over a large area for an extended period of time that adversely affects plants, animal life, and humans. It can also be defined in terms of meteorology, agriculture, and hydrology. A drought period can last for months, years, or even decades. It is rarely a direct cause of death, though the associated heat, dust, and stress can all contribute to increased mortality. Based on information from the National Weather Service for 2006, drought was the nation s second most costly natural hazard, causing $2.6 billion in property and crop damages (flooding caused $3.9 billion in damages). Periods of drought are normal occurrences in all parts of Kansas. Drought in Kansas is caused by severely inadequate amounts of precipitation that adversely affect farming and ranching, surface and ground water supplies, and uses of surface waters for navigation and recreation. Drought can Reno County, Kansas 3.27

28 cause significant economic and environmental impacts and also create favorable conditions for wildfires and wind erosion (see Section Wildfire and Section Soil Erosion and Dust). Warning Time: Level 1 More than 24 hours Duration: Level 4 More than one week Geographic Location As a regional phenomenon, drought affects all areas of the County with roughly the same frequency and severity. Across a broader scale that includes all of Kansas and the nation as a whole, Figure 3.8 from the Kansas Hazard Mitigation Plan shows that Reno County is situated in an area of South Central Kansas that experienced drought percent of the time over the 100-year period from Figure 3.8 United States Percent of Time in Drought, Note: Blue Square indicates the region of south central Kansas that includes Reno County While the entire planning area is subject to drought conditions, the impacts of severe drought are greatest in those areas of the County that are primarily agricultural. Over 732,000 acres (92 percent of the planning area) in Reno County are used for agricultural purposes such as pasture for livestock grazing or fields planted with crops. Reno County, Kansas 3.28

29 Previous Occurrences There are a certain number of drought impacts each year in Kansas, though the actual number of impacts and severity varies widely. The National Drought Mitigation Center Drought Impact Reporter notes a long term period of abnormally dry or moderate drought conditions from for Kansas. It also reported one drought event on September 1, 2000 with $1.9 million in crop damage. Figure 3.9 shows the precipitation levels across the United States during the droughts in the 1950s and 1930s. In 1953, Reno County was part of the driest area of the country (shaded dark red). During this drought, President Eisenhower made $40 million available to 13 droughtstricken states, including Kansas. In 1937, Reno County and the majority of Kansas counties were even worse. Impacts of recent drought periods in Kansas that affected Reno County are provided below: Reno County was included in five USDA disaster declarations for drought. During the period from 2003 to 2007, Reno County was included in two drought watch declaration and four drought warning declarations According to the point system utilized by the Kansas Water Office, Reno County received 10 points during this time frame. (1 point for each watch declaration, 2 points for each warning and 3 points for each emergency) Figure 3.9 Historical Droughts 1953 and 1937 Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Note: Light blue squares indicates approximate location of Reno County Reno County, Kansas 3.29

30 The National Drought Mitigation Center developed the Drought Impact Reporter in response to the need for a national drought impact database for the United States. Information comes from a variety of sources: online drought-related news stories and scientific publications, members of the public who visit the website and submit a drought-related impact for their region, members of the media, and members of relevant government agencies. The database is being populated beginning with the most recent impacts and working backward in time. The Drought Impact Reporter ( contains information on 63 drought impacts from droughts that affected Reno County between 1950 and The list is not comprehensive. Most of the impacts, 34, were classified as agriculture. Other impacts include, fire (6), environment (6), water/energy (9), and other (8). These categories are described as follows: Agriculture Impacts associated with agriculture, farming, and ranching. Examples include damage to crop quality, income loss for farmers due to reduced crop yields, reduced productivity of cropland, insect infestation, plant disease, increased irrigation costs, cost of new or supplemental water resource development, reduced productivity of rangeland, forced reduction of foundation stock, closure/limitation of public lands to grazing, high cost/unavailability of water for livestock, and range fires. Water/Energy Impacts associated with surface or subsurface water supplies (i.e., reservoirs or aquifers), stream levels or streamflow, hydropower generation, or navigation. Examples include lower water levels in reservoirs, lakes, and ponds; reduced flow from springs; reduced streamflow; loss of wetlands; estuarine impacts; increased groundwater depletion, land subsidence, reduced recharge; water quality effects; revenue shortfalls and/or windfall profits; cost of water transport or transfer; cost of new or supplemental water resource development; and loss from impaired navigability of streams, rivers, and canals. Environment Impacts associated with wildlife, fisheries, forests, and other fauna. Examples include loss of biodiversity of plants or wildlife; loss of trees from urban landscapes, shelterbelts, wooded conservation areas; reduction and degradation of fish and wildlife habitat; lack of feed and drinking water; greater mortality due to increased contact with agricultural producers, as animals seek food from farms and producers are less tolerant of the intrusion; disease; increased vulnerability to predation; migration and concentration; and increased stress to endangered species. Fire Impacts associated with forest and range fires that occur during drought events. The relationship between fires and droughts is very complex. Not all fires are caused by droughts and serious fires can result when droughts are not taking place. Other Drought impacts that do not easily fit into any of the above categories. According to the USDA Risk Management Agency, insured crop losses in Reno County as a result of drought conditions from 2005 to 2008 totaled over $8.7 million as detailed in Table 3.9. Reno County, Kansas 3.30

31 Table 3.9 Claims Paid in Reno County for Crop Loss as a Result of Drought Year Crop Hazard Claims Paid ($) 2005 Wheat Drought 32, Corn Drought 4, Grain Sorghum Drought 147, Sunflowers Drought 71, Soybeans Drought 20, Wheat Drought 4,997, Corn Drought 360, Grain Sorghum Drought 1,138, Soybeans Drought 380, Sunflowers Drought 600, Wheat Drought Corn Drought 42, Grain Sorghum Drought 105, Soybeans Drought 170, Wheat Drought 486, Corn Drought 89, Grain Sorghum Drought 38, Sunflowers Drought 11, Soybeans Drought 44,952 Total 8,744,468 Source: USDA s Risk Management Agency, 2009 Probability of Future Occurrences Based on data from NOAA and the Palmer Drought Severity Index , Reno County experienced severe and extreme drought percent of the time during that 100-year period, which ranks as a possible probability of occurrence based on the definitions set forth in the hazard profile methodology. However, the HMPC decided a drought was unlikely in the next ten years. This was based on the most recent climate cycle which could change in the future. Unlikely: Level 1 Event is possible within the next 10 years Magnitude/Severity Drought impacts are wide-reaching and may be economic, environmental, and/or societal. The most significant impacts associated with drought in Kansas are those related to agriculture. As discussed in the profile on Agricultural Infestation, the agricultural industry provides the economic base for Reno County. Even though insured crop loss figures are high, the HMPC decided less than 10 percent of the property would be severely damaged. This is based on the Reno County, Kansas 3.31

32 High Plains/Ogallala Aquifer being beneath most of the County (Figure 3.10) and the high water table. The figure below shows that water is available less than 50 feet underground in Reno County. Figure 3.10 High Plains/Ogallala Aquifer in Central Kansas Source: Note: Blue box indicates Reno County Negligible: Level 1 Less than 10 percent of property is severely damaged Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 1.30 Low Reno County, Kansas 3.32

33 3.2.6 Earthquake Description An earthquake is a sudden motion or trembling that is caused by a release of strain accumulated within or along the edge of Earth s tectonic plates. The severity of these effects is dependent on the amount of energy released from the fault or epicenter. Kansas experiences small earthquakes on a routine basis, but few are of a magnitude that causes damage to buildings or the infrastructure. Warning Time: Level 4 less than six hours Duration: Level 1 Less than 6 hours Geographic Location Reno County is in an area of relatively low seismic activity. The closest series of faults called the Humboldt Fault Zone runs through Riley and Pottawatomie Counties and extends south along the Nemaha Ridge also known as the Nemaha Uplift. Figure 3.11 below shows the locations of minor earthquakes recorded by the Kansas Geological Survey between August 1977 and August The locations of earthquakes are indicated by blue points size coded by local magnitude. Locations of faults are indicated by green lines. The largest event had a magnitude of 4.0 and the smallest had a magnitude of 0.8 on the Richter scale. No seismic events were recorded in or near Reno County during this period. Reno County, Kansas 3.33

34 Figure 3.11 Locations of Faults and Historic Micro-Earthquakes in Kansas Source: Kansas Geological Survey, Note: Blue square indicates approximate location of Reno County The New Madrid Seismic Zone follows the Mississippi River valley from southeastern Missouri to northwestern Mississippi, roughly 200 miles southeast of Reno County. While it is unlikely that Reno County would receive extensive damage from a large New Madrid Seismic Zone event, it is possible that ground shaking would be noticed. Based on the location of Reno County relative to seismically active areas, earthquake risk is similar across the entire planning area, including all participating jurisdictions. Previous Occurrences At least 25 earthquakes were recorded by the Kansas Geological Survey between August 1876 and 1976 (Figure 3.12), but none are recorded in Reno County. Kansas experiences small earthquakes on a routine basis, but few are of a magnitude that causes damage to buildings or the infrastructure. According to a 2001 FEMA report, Kansas ranks 45 th among the states in the amount of damage caused by earthquakes in an average year. Reno County, Kansas 3.34

35 Figure 3.12 Historical Earthquakes in Kansas Prior to 1977 Source: US Geologic Survey (USGS), Probability of Future Occurrences Figure 3.13 indicates the probability of a magnitude earthquake in Reno County over a 100-year time period is a probability of.030. Based on these estimates, the probability of a significant earthquake in any given year is unlikely. Unlikely: Level 1 History of events is less than 10 percent likely per year Reno County, Kansas 3.35

36 Figure 3.13 Earthquake Probability Source: U.S. Geological Survey, Figure 3.14 indicates that there is a 2.0 percent probability of an earthquake exceeding a peak acceleration of 4.0 percent of gravity in the next 50 years in Reno County. Typically, significant earthquake damage occurs when accelerations are greater than 30 percent of gravity. Figure 3.14 Kansas Seismic Hazard Map: Peak Acceleration (%g) with 2% Probability of Exceedance in 50 Years Source: U.S. Geological Survey, Note: Black square indicates approximate location of Reno County Reno County, Kansas 3.36

37 Magnitude/Severity In general, the potential magnitude and severity of earthquakes is catastrophic when considering the worst case scenario, with multiple fatalities and more than 50 percent of property severely damaged. The New Madrid, Missouri earthquake is an example of such an earthquake that indicates the potential severity of ground-shaking in that region. Based on the available data and assessments of probability (two percent chance of a magnitude earthquake per 100 years), potential magnitude/severity is considered negligible for Reno County. Negligible: Level 1 Less than 10 percent of property is severely damaged, shutdown of facilities and services for less than 24 hours; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable with first aid. Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 1.40 Low Expansive Soils Description A relatively widespread geologic hazard for Kansas is the presence of soils that expand and shrink in relation to their water content. Expansive soils can cause physical damage to building foundations, roadways, and other components of the infrastructure when clay soils swell and shrink due to changes in moisture content. For Kansas, the vulnerability to this hazard most frequently is associated with soils shrinking during periods of drought. Warning Time: Level 1 more than 24 hours Duration: Level 4 more than one week Geographic Location Figure 3.15 shows a map of the swelling potential of soils in Kansas. Reno County is located in an area where part of the soil unit (generally less than 50 percent) consists of clay having slight to moderate swelling potential and part having (generally less than 50 percent) clay with high swelling potential. More detailed data on how these soils vary within the Reno County planning area was not available. Therefore, for the purposes of this plan, the hazard is considered to affect all participating jurisdictions. Reno County, Kansas 3.37

38 Figure 3.15 Swelling Soils Map of Kansas MAP LEGEND Unit contains abundant clay having high swelling potential Part of unit (generally less than 50%) consists of clay having high swelling potential Unit contains abundant clay having slight to moderate swelling potential Part of unit (generally less than 50%) consists of clay having slight to moderate swelling potential Unit contains little or no swelling clay Data insufficient to indicate clay content of unit and/or swelling potential of clay Source: U.S. Geological Survey, Note: Black square indicates approximate location of Reno County Previous Occurrences Streets and parking lots throughout the County are damaged every year by the effects of expansive soils. The frequency of damage from expansive soils can be associated with the cycles of drought and heavy rainfall, which reflect changes in moisture content. The effects of shrinkswell cycles in expansive soils are cumulative, and in most cases are associated with accelerated wear and tear on roads, sidewalks and building foundations. There is no data regarding incidents of damages resulting from expansive soils. These damages are largely isolated incidents and affected property owners make any necessary repairs. Probability of Future Occurrences Although there will continue to be some damage to paved areas and foundations in Reno County due to swelling soils, it is unlikely that these damages will become greater in the future unless new development occurs in areas where the hazard is more severe. Certain building and Reno County, Kansas 3.38

39 construction practices could be put in place to lessen these impacts. The HMPC determined that significant damage to assets in the planning area is unlikely in any given year. Unlikely: Level 1 History of events is less than 10 percent likely per year Magnitude/Severity The HMPC determined that while the entire planning area is vulnerable to some structure damage as a result of expansive soils, so the magnitude would be negligible and handled by individual property owners. Negligible: Level 1 Less than 10 percent of property is severely damaged, shutdown of facilities and services for less than 24 hours; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable with first aid Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 1.3 Low Extreme Heat Description Extreme temperature events, both hot and cold, can have severe impacts on human health and mortality, natural ecosystems, agriculture, and other economic sectors. According to information provided by FEMA, extreme heat is defined as temperatures that hover 10 degrees or more above the average high temperature for the region and last for several weeks. Ambient air temperature is one component of heat conditions, with relative humidity being the other. The relationship of these factors creates what is known as the apparent temperature. The Heat Index Chart in Figure 3.16 uses both of these factors to produce a guide for the apparent temperature or relative intensity of heat conditions. Reno County, Kansas 3.39

40 Figure 3.16 Heat Index (HI) Chart Source: National Weather Service (NWS) Note: Exposure to direct sun can increase Heat Index values by as much as 15 F. Note on the HI chart the shaded zone above 105 F. This corresponds to a level of HI that may cause increasingly severe heat disorders with continued exposure and/or physical activity. Extreme heat is a serious public health issue and a livestock issue in agricultural areas such as Reno County. From , there were 230 fatalities in the United States attributed to are summer heat. According to the National Weather Service, among natural hazards, no other natural disaster not lightning, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, or earthquakes takes a greater toll. Those at greatest risk for heat-related illness include infants and children up to four years of age, people 65 years of age and older, people who are overweight, and people who are ill or on certain medications. However, even young and healthy individuals are susceptible if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather. In agricultural areas, the exposure of farm workers, as well as livestock, to extreme heat is a major concern. Table 3.10 lists typical health impacts of extreme heat. Table 3.10 Typical Health Impacts of Extreme Heat Heat Index (HI) Disorder F (HI) Fatigue possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity F (HI) Sunstroke, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion possible with prolonged exposure and/or physical activity F (HI) Heatstroke/sunstroke highly likely with continued exposure Source: National Weather Service Heat Index Program, Reno County, Kansas 3.40

41 The National Weather Service has a system in place to initiate alert procedures (advisories or warnings) when the Heat Index is expected to have a significant impact on public safety. The expected severity of the heat determines whether advisories or warnings are issued. A common guideline for issuing excessive heat alerts is when the maximum daytime Heat Index is expected to equal or exceed 105 degrees Fahrenheit ( F) and the night time minimum Heat Index is 80 F or above for two or more consecutive days. Warning Time: Level 1 More than 24 hours Duration: Level 4 More than one week Geographic Location The entire planning area is subject to extreme heat events and all participating jurisdictions can be affected. Previous Occurrences Since 1980, there have been a number of major extreme temperature events that have caused death and damage in the central United States, including Kansas. For the period , the NCDC database lists one incident of extreme heat in Reno County, which occurred in July From July 16-20, 2006, a deadly heat wave gripped much of central, south-central and south-east Kansas, and temperatures peaked in the F range, with afternoon heat indices about the same. The cover of darkness provided little in the way of relief, as overnight temperatures were slow to fall off, reaching only the upper 70s by sunrise for some locations. The prolonged heat claimed five lives across south-central and southeast Kansas, most of them elderly men. During , Reno County received USDA emergency designations two times for excessive heat; once in 2006 and According to the USDA Risk Management Agency, insured crop losses in Reno County as a result of extreme heat conditions from 2005 to 2008 totaled $686, Table 3.11 summarizes these claims by year, crop, and hazard. Table 3.11 Claims Paid in Reno County for Crop Loss as a Result of Extreme Heat Year Crop Hazard Claims Paid ($) 2005 Corn Heat 134, Grain Sorghum Heat 57, Soybeans Heat 19, Corn Heat 73, Grain Sorghum Heat 12, Soybeans Heat 88, Soybeans Hot Wind 1, Wheat Heat 1,179 Reno County, Kansas 3.41

42 Claims Paid Year Crop Hazard ($) 2007 Corn Heat 32, Grain Sorghum Heat 49, Soybeans Heat 60, Corn Heat 61, Grain Sorghum Heat 1, Grain Sorghum Hot Wind Soybeans Heat 72, Soybeans Hot Wind 21,955 Total 686,569 Source: USDA s Risk Management Agency, 2009 Table 3.12 summarizes record high temperatures by month in Reno County from 1953 to The highest temperatures in Hutchinson on average occur in the month of August, followed closely by June, July and September. The highest recorded temperature at the weather station is 111 F, which occurred on August 6, Table 3.12 Record High Temperatures by Month, 1953 to 2008 Month Maximum Temp Month Maximum Temp. January 79 July 110 February 84 August 111 March 89 September 108 April 98 October 95 May 102 November 88 June 110 December 76 Source: High Plains Regional Climate Center, Probability of Future Occurrences Although periods of extreme heat generally occur on an annual basis, events that cause significant risk occur somewhat less often. The HMPC determined that the likelihood of an extreme heat event in any given year is likely. Likely: Level 3 Event is probable within the next three years Magnitude/Severity The HMPC notes that instability of the electrical grid has been an issue during periods of extreme heat. Specific dates of occurrence were not available. The resulting intermittent power outages increased the effects of extreme heat as some residents were not able to seek relief in air conditioned homes and buildings. Reno County, Kansas 3.42

43 In the state of Kansas, there were 12 fatalities due to extreme heat during the period from according to the Kansas Hazard Mitigation Plan. Due to the potential for fatalities and the possibility for the loss of electric power, periods of extreme heat can severely affect the planning area. In addition, accompanying drought may compound the problem exacerbating agricultural and economic losses. Limited: Level percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of facilities for more than a week; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable do not result in permanent disability Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 2.5 Moderate Flood Description There are several different types of potential flood events in Reno County including riverine, flash flooding, and urban stormwater. Riverine flooding is defined as when a watercourse exceeds its bank-full capacity and is the most common type of flood event. Riverine flooding generally occurs as a result of prolonged rainfall, or rainfall that is combined with soils already saturated from previous rain events. The area adjacent to a river channel is its floodplain. In its common usage, floodplain most often refers to that area that is inundated by the 100-year flood, the flood that has a 1 percent chance in any given year of being equaled or exceeded. The 1 percent annual flood is the national standard to which communities regulate their floodplains through the National Flood Insurance Program. Factors that directly affect the amount of flood runoff include precipitation, intensity and distribution, the amount of soil moisture, seasonal variation in vegetation, and water-resistance of the surface areas due to urbanization. The term "flash flood" describes localized floods of great volume and short duration. In contrast to riverine flooding, this type of flood usually results from a heavy rainfall on a relatively small drainage area. Precipitation of this sort usually occurs in the spring and summer. Urban flood events result as land loses its ability to absorb rainfall as it is converted from fields or woodlands to roads, buildings, and parking lots. Urbanization increases runoff two to six times over what would occur on undeveloped terrain. Dam and Levee failure also causes flooding (see Section 3.2.3). The onset of flooding varies, depending on the cause and type. Flash flooding and dam/levee failure inundation typically occur with little or no warning, whereas flooding caused by long periods of excessive rainfall tends to have longer duration but more gradual onset. Overall warning time is usually hours. The duration of flood conditions is generally less than one week, but in exceptional cases can extend for much longer periods. Reno County, Kansas 3.43

44 Warning Time: hours Duration: 3 less than one week Geographic Location The Lower Arkansas River Basin in Kansas that includes Reno County is a square drainage area that extends southern into Oklahoma. It covers approximately 11,500 square miles of southcentral Kansas and includes all or parts of 20 counties. The Arkansas River flows generally southeast across the basin. Major tributaries entering the river along its course are Rattlesnake Creek, Cow Creek, Little Arkansas River, Ninnescah River and Slate Creek. The major reservoir in the basin is Cheney Reservoir. Flooding in Reno County is mainly caused by the overflow of the Arkansas River, North Fork Ninnescah, Cow Creek, as well as other creeks and tributaries. Flooding is due to sustained periods of widespread rainfall within the drainage basin. Figure 3.17 Lower Arkansas River Basin Source: Kansas Water Office, The effective FIRM for the County is from the revision on July 19, Preliminary digital flood insurance rate maps (DFIRM) were issued to Reno County in August 2008 through Reno County, Kansas 3.44

45 FEMA s map modernization program but the County has not received a Letter of Final Determination from FEMA. The County is anticipating an effective date in January The best available data for flooding in Reno County was generated by HAZUS-MH MR3, FEMA s software program for estimating potential losses from disasters. HAZUS was used to generate a 1 percent annual flood, or 100-year flood, event for major rivers and creeks in the County. The software produces a flood polygon and flood-depth grid that represents the 100-year flood. While not as accurate as official flood maps, these floodplain boundaries are for use in GIS-based loss estimation. Figure 3.18 is a map of the HAZUS 100-year floodplain in Reno County. Reno County, Kansas 3.45

46 Figure 3.18 Reno County HAZUS 100-Year Floodplain Reno County, Kansas 3.46

47 The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have built several levees in Reno County. The levees provide protection for the City of Hutchinson, South Hutchinson and Willowbrook from the 100-year flood. Previous Occurrences Riverine flooding is the most common type of flood hazard in Reno County. Reno County is also prone to flash flooding, which is defined as a rapid rise in water level, fast-moving water, and debris. Another issue that exacerbates the flooding problem is illegal dumping in the floodways and floodplains in the planning area. During flood conditions, this debris can accumulate at narrow points of the river and/or under bridges to cause debris jams. In some instances, this causes the water to back up in to areas that would not otherwise flood if the water was unobstructed. When this situation occurs around bridges, the potential for water spilling onto the roadway is increased as well as erosion around the bridge footings. Table 3.13 shows 28 recorded flood events in Reno County between 1993 and 2008 from the NCDC database. However, it should be noted that prior to 1993, flood data was available only on a limited basis for major floods (floods of 1951 and 1986). Minor floods and flash floods were not recorded prior to It is highly likely that there were localized events prior to 1993 that were not recorded. Historical flooding in Reno County and the City of Hutchinson has resulted in a number of flooding events since the levee was constructed in The following examples are extreme floods recorded since 1993: February 7, 1993 Runoff from melting snow and persistent rains forced Cow Creek out of its banks across Northern Reno County from the 7th through the 9th. Three families left their homes when access roads became impassable. July 16, 1999-Widespread thunderstorms covering most of Reno County produced rainfalls up to 7 inches in and around Hutchinson within a 3-hour period. The torrential rains caused major flash flooding across Hutchinson that inundated many homes, businesses and streets. Floodwaters reached depths of 4 feet in some locations that resulted in the closures of many streets. August 13, 2002 Nickerson was completely flooded and inaccessible, with water levels reaching the windows of many vehicles. In Hutchinson, the Cow Creek overflowed, resulting in the closure of numerous streets. There was flooding of lesser severity throughout the rest of Reno County. Reno County, Kansas 3.47

48 May 7-8, 2007-A slow moving powerful storm that brought several tornadoes to Central and South-west Kansas brought significant flooding to parts of Central Kansas. These storms brought with them very heavy rain. Hutchinson reported major flooding on the Cow Creek. There was numerous water rescues performed. Damage to public roads, bridges, and structures was estimated at 2.5 million dollars. May 23-28, 2007 Slow moving thunderstorms produced 4 to 5 inches of rain across the north-western portion of Reno County. Arlington to Hutchinson to Buhler received 7 to 8 inches. Excessive runoff from this heavy rainfall caused the Arkansas River and several creeks and streams to rise above flood stage. At least 60 homes and businesses were flooded including Carey Park and the Kansas Cosmosphere in Hutchinson. Table 3.13 Flood Events in Reno County, Location Date Property Damage Crop Damage Nickerson 2/7/1993 $50,000 $50,000 Nickerson 4/2/1993 $50,000 $50,000 Buhler 5/30/1993 $50,000 $5,000 Abbyville 5/9/1996 $0 $0 Sylvia 5/9/1996 $0 $0 Yoder 7/8/1997 $0 $0 Nickerson 4/2/1998 $0 $0 Hutchinson 6/22/1998 $0 $0 unincorporated 10/31/1998 $0 $0 unincorporated 3/23/2000 $0 $0 Buhler 6/11/2002 $0 $0 Nickerson 6/15/2002 $0 $0 Nickerson 8/13/2002 $500,000 $0 Hutchinson 10/8/2003 $0 $0 Turon 8/16/2004 $0 $0 Countywide 6/8/2005 $0 $0 unincorporated 7/3/2005 $0 $0 Hutchinson 7/4/2005 $0 $0 unincorporated 7/4/2005 $0 $0 Hutchinson 3/23/2007 $0 $0 Hutchinson 5/7/2007 $0 $0 Haven 5/8/2007 $0 $0 Hutchinson 5/23/2007 $0 $0 Hutchinson 5/23/2007 $6.500,000 $0 Abbyville 5/27/2007 $0 $0 Cheney Res 6/28/2008 $0 $0 Buhler 10/15/2008 $0 $0 Nickerson 10/18/2008 $0 $0 Total $7,150,000 $105,000 Reno County, Kansas 3.48

49 During , Reno County received USDA emergency designations three times for excessive moisture; twice in 2005 and once in According to the USDA Risk Management Agency, insured crop losses in Reno County as a result of flood conditions and excessive moisture from 2005 to 2008 totaled over $5.2 million. Table 3.14 provides a summary of claims paid, by year, crop, and hazard that caused damages. Table 3.14 Claims Paid in Reno County for Crop Loss as a Result of Excessive Moisture and Flood Year Crop Hazard Claims Paid ($) 2005 Wheat Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 613, Corn Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 103, Grain Sorghum Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 55, Sunflowers Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 21, Soybeans Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 55, Wheat Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 1,805, Corn Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 255, Grain Sorghum Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 30, Soybeans Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 68, Wheat Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 870, Canola Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 107, Corn Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 507, Grain Sorghum Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 188, Sunflowers Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 183, Soybeans Excess Moisture/Precip/Rain 120, Wheat Flood 5, Wheat Flood 152, Corn Flood 93, Grain Sorghum Flood Soybeans Flood Wheat Flood 11, Soybeans Flood 25,434 Total 5,278,059 Source: USDA Risk Management Agency, 2009 Probability of Future Occurrences Based on the detailed historical data available from 1993 to the present, there is at least one minor or flash flood every year in Reno County. In the past 15 years there have been 28 flood events for Reno County. It is reasonable to determine that the probability of future flooding in Reno County is highly likely. Highly Likely: Level 4 Event is probable within the next year Reno County, Kansas 3.49

50 Magnitude/Severity Past flood events in Reno County have caused significant damage to property and agriculture, endangered lives, and shut down critical facilities and infrastructure. Critical: Level percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of facilities for at least two weeks; and/or injuries and/or illnesses result in permanent disability Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 3.3 High Fog Description Fog results from air being cooled to the point where it can no longer hold all of the water vapor it contains. For example, rain can cool and moisten the air near the surface until fog forms. A cloud-free, humid air mass at night can lead to fog formation, where land and water surfaces that have warmed up during the summer are still evaporating water into the atmosphere. This is called radiation fog. A warm moist air mass blowing over a cold surface also can cause fog to form, which is called advection fog. In Kansas, fog is principally a threat to public safety. Of particular concern is the potential for multi-vehicle accidents and farm equipment accidents in Kansas. These accidents can cause injuries and deaths and can have serious implications for health, safety, and environmental if a hazardous or nuclear waste shipment is involved. Other disruptions from fog include delayed emergency response vehicle travel. Warning Time: hours Duration: Level 1 less than 6 hours Geographic Location The entire planning area, including all participating jurisdictions, is at risk to fog if conditions are present. The low-lying areas are at increased risk due to the nature of fog to settle in these areas. Previous Occurrences The NCDC database shows no recorded fog occurrence in Reno County. Reno County, Kansas 3.50

51 Probability of Future Occurrences Although fog does occur in the planning area on an annual basis, damages directly related to the fog conditions are sporadic and largely difficult to identify direct linkage to fog as the cause. Therefore, it has been determined that occurrence of damage as a result of fog is unlikely in any given year. Unlikely: Event is possible with the next 10 years. Magnitude/Severity As a result of the lack of reported damages from fog in the past, it has been determined that if events do occur, losses would be minimal. Negligible: Less than 10 percent of property severely damaged, shutdown of facilities and services for less than 24 hours; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable with first aid Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 1.15 Low Hailstorm Description Hailstorms in Kansas cause damage to property, crops, and harm livestock. Because of the large agricultural industry in Kansas, crop damage and livestock losses due to hail are of great concern to the state. Even relatively small hail can cause serious damage to crops and trees. Vehicles, roofs of buildings and homes, and landscaping are the other things most commonly damaged by hail. Hail has been known to cause injury and the occasional fatality to humans, often associated with traffic accidents. Hail is associated with thunderstorms that can also bring powerful winds and tornadoes. A hailstorm forms when updrafts carry raindrops into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere where they condense and freeze. Hail falls when it becomes heavy enough to overcome the strength of the updraft and is pulled by gravity towards the earth. The onset of hailstorms is generally rapid. Duration is less than six hours and warning time is generally less than six hours. Based on information provided by the Tornado and Storm Research Organization (TORRO), Table 3.15 describes typical damage impacts of the various sizes of hail. Reno County, Kansas 3.51

52 Table 3.15 TORRO Hailstorm Intensity Scale Intensity Category Diameter (mm) Diameter (inches) Size Description Hard Hail Pea No damage Potentially Damaging Typical Damage Impacts Mothball Slight general damage to plants, crops Significant Marble, grape Significant damage to fruit, crops, vegetation Severe Walnut Severe damage to fruit and crops, damage to glass and plastic structures, paint and wood scored Severe Pigeon's egg > squash ball Destructive Golf ball > Pullet's egg Widespread glass damage, vehicle bodywork damage Wholesale destruction of glass, damage to tiled roofs, significant risk of injuries Destructive Hen's egg Bodywork of grounded aircraft dented, brick walls pitted Destructive Tennis ball > cricket ball Destructive Large orange > Soft ball Super Hailstorms Super Hailstorms Severe roof damage, risk of serious injuries Severe damage to aircraft bodywork Grapefruit Extensive structural damage. Risk of severe or even fatal injuries to persons caught in the open > Melon Extensive structural damage. Risk of severe or even fatal injuries to persons caught in the open Source: Tornado and Storm Research Organization (TORRO), Department of Geography, Oxford Brookes University Notes: In addition to hail diameter, factors including number and density of hailstones, hail fall speed and surface wind speeds affect severity. Warning Time: 2 12 to 24 hours Duration: 1 less than 6 hours Geographic Location The entire planning area, including all participating jurisdictions, is at risk to hailstorms. Previous Occurrences The NCDC reports 461 hail events in Reno County between 1957 and There were numerous reports of hail damage to vehicles and property. In 1998, there was $750,000 in crop damage. Table 3.16 shows the number of hail events by the size of the hail. Reno County, Kansas 3.52

53 Table 3.16 Hail Events Summarized by Hail Size (in inches), Hail Size (inches) Number of Events Source: National Climatic Data Center (NCDC), Annualized property damage, based on this data from the NCDC for , in Reno County was $923,000. During , Reno County received one USDA emergency designations for hail damage in According to the USDA Risk Management Agency, insured crop losses in Reno County as a result of hail from 2005 to 2008 totaled over $1.4 million. Table 3.17 provides a summary of claims paid, by year, crop, and hazard that caused damages. Table 3.17 Claims Paid in Reno County for Crop Loss as a Result of Hail Year Crop Hazard Claims Paid ($) 2005 Wheat Hail 91, Corn Hail 533, Grain Sorghum Hail 2, Sunflowers Hail 19, Soybeans Hail 30, Wheat Hail 80, Wheat Hail 17, Wheat Hail 569, Corn Hail 37, Grain Sorghum Hail 3, Soybeans Hail 20,655 Total 1,406,795 Source: USDA Risk Management Agency, 2009 Reno County, Kansas 3.53

54 Probability of Future Occurrences Hail events occur every year in Reno County. When limiting the probability analysis to hail events producing hail 1.75 inches and larger, NCDC lists 145 reported events in a 51-year period. Based on this historic frequency, future probability of a large-sized hail event in any given year is 100 percent and the recurrence interval is roughly three events every year. However, these events may not always occur in developed parts of the County and damage may not always be significant. Figure 3.19 indicates that hail of two inches or larger in size occurred 2 to 2.5 days per year on average in Reno County from Figure 3.19 Annual Hailstorm Probability (2 diameter or larger), Source: NSSL, Note: Black square indicates approximate location of Reno County Based on frequency of previous occurrences, probability of future occurrence is considered highly likely. Highly Likely: Level 4 Event is probable within the calendar year Magnitude/Severity In addition to concerns for public safety, assets that are vulnerable to hail damage include crops and built structures. Of these, crop damage from hailstorms is the most common and costly. Large hail can devastate crops that are at vulnerable stages in the plant/harvest cycle, and it is possible for a great percentage of crop yields to be lost as a result of even a single hail event. Structure damage due to hail is usually covered under private insurance. The NCDC reports that $923,000 in property and crop damage occurred from Information on specific Reno County, Kansas 3.54

55 structural damage costs in the planning area as a result of hail damage was not available. Overall magnitude and severity of hailstorms is considered negligible. Negligible: Less than 10 percent of property severely damaged, shutdown of facilities and services for less than 24 hours; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable with first aid Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 2.8 Moderate Hazardous Materials Description Hazardous materials and hazardous waste are a concern for Reno County because a sudden accidental or intentional release of such materials can be dangerous to human health and safety, to property, and to the quality of the environment. Such releases may come from both fixed sources, such as a manufacturing or storage facility, or from a transportation source, such as a truck, pipeline, or railroad. Accidental releases may be due to equipment failure, human error, and a natural or manmade hazard event. Facilities that store or use chemicals considered unusually dangerous to human safety are required by Section 112R of the Clean Air Act Amendments to assess the potential impacts of an accidental release of the chemical at their facility and to prepare Risk Management Plans (RMP). Of particular interest to Kansas is that ammonia is one of the covered hazardous materials. Numerous Kansas ammonia storage and distribution facilities have filed an RMP with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Reno County has 157 Tier II reporting facilities housing chemicals. Tier II facilities are defined by EPA as facilities storing 10,000 pounds (500 pounds for extremely hazardous substances ) or more of hazardous chemicals. Reno County has 504 miles of gas pipeline and 806 miles of liquid pipeline. Warning Time: 4 less than six hours Duration: 2 less than 1 day Geographic Location In Reno County there are hundreds of miles of city streets and highways that chemical tanks traverse on. Everyday, dozens of chemical cargoes cross the County on the railroads. According to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, Reno County has 504 miles of gas pipeline, 806 miles of liquid pipelines, which comprises 5.3 percent of the state s total pipelines. Reno County, Kansas 3.55

56 Reno County has 157 facilities housing hazardous chemicals. See figure 3.20 below. These fixed facilities release and dispose of hazardous materials. The EPA under their Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) program is required to maintain inventory of this hazard. In 2007, Reno County released or had on-site disposal of 77,289 pounds of hazardous materials and 211 pounds of offsite disposal or releases. Note: The data does not reflect whether (or to what degree) the public has been exposed to any of the TRI chemicals. Both the toxicity of a chemical and exposure considerations should be taken into account when examining the data. Some high-volume releases of less toxic chemicals may appear to be a more serious problem than lower volume releases of highly toxic chemicals, when just the opposite may be true. The TRI does not cover all toxic chemicals that have the potential to adversely affect human health or the environment. Facilities that do not meet the reporting threshold levels are not required to report. The data does not include emissions from mobile sources nor releases of pesticides, volatile organic compounds, or fertilizers from many non industrial sources. Reno County also houses one superfund site, Obee Road, or otherwise known as the Hutchinson City Dump, in Hutchinson, Kansas. Before closing in 1973, the dump accepted unknown quantities of liquid wastes and sludges from local industries, as well as solvents from small metal-finishing operations at local aircraft plants.the site has contaminated ground water with VOC s such as trichloroethylene (TCE), vinyl chloride, and chloroform. Residences in the area are now connected to the public water supply, but the private wells have not been plugged. Figure 3.20 Kansas Facilities Housing Hazardous Chemicals, 2006 Source: Kansas Commission on Emergency Planning and Response Managing the Risk Annual Report, Reno County, Kansas 3.56

57 Note: Tier II facilities are covered by the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA). The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requires the annual submittal of Tier II reports for each facility storing 10,000 pounds (500 pounds for extremely hazardous substances) or more of hazardous chemicals (approximately 1,600 gallons of gasoline, 1,420 gallons of fuel oil, 1,480 gallons of kerosene, 1,075 gallons of antifreeze, or 1,350 gallons of lube oil). In Tables 3.18 below, lists by industry in Reno County these on-site and off-site disposed chemicals in Table 3.18 Reno County TRI On-Site and Off-Site Reported Disposed Chemicals (in pounds) by Industry Total On-site Disposal or Other Releases Total Off-site Disposal or Other Releases Total On- and Offsite Disposal or Other Releases Industry Food/Beverages/Tobacco Printing and Publishing Fabricated Metals Machinery Total Source: t=1&fld=rellby&fld=tsfdsp&_service=oiaa&_program=xp_tri.sasmacr.tristart.macro Previous Occurrences From , there were 126 hazardous material spills reported to the State from Reno County. (See Table 3.19 below) Also according to the Kansas Division of Emergency Management, there are 40 critical sites in Kansas. They are deemed so because of the severity of the chemicals, the quantity of chemicals, and the amount of population affected in a worse case scenario. Reno County has #22 on the list with a food distribution center and #37 with a food manufacturing site. Table 3.19 Hazardous Materials Incidents by County, Incident County Total Incidents Fixed/ Storage Railroad Railroad Nonrelease Pipeline Mobile Aircraft Other/ Unknown Reno Reno County has an extensive transportation network. Thus they were ranked 10th in the State for transportation hazardous materials incidents. As you can see below in Table 3.20, they do not have any fatalities as a result of these incidents. Reno County, Kansas 3.57

58 Table 3.20 Transportation Hazardous Materials Incidents by County, Incident County Total Incidents Total Fatalities Total Injuries Total Damages ($) Total Evacuated Reno , Source: DOT s Hazardous Materials Information System, Notes: The costs shown are in 2006 dollars. Probability of Future Occurrences As with all hazard events, special populations are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of a hazardous materials incident especially because of the inherent difficulties involved in evacuation. These populations will require assistance should an incident occur. The state has inventoried special populations facilities (adult, child care, and health facilities; state prisons; and schools) 1/2, 1, and 2 miles from chemical facilities. Table 3.21 shows how many of each type of these facilities Reno County has within 1/2 mile of a chemical facility from the State Plan. Table 3.21 Special Population Facilities near Chemical Facilities County Adult Facilities* Child Care Facilities Health Facilities** State Prisons Schools Total Facilities Reno Source: Kansas Adjutant General s Department * Adult facilities include adult day care, assisted living, home plus, intermediate care for mentally retarded, nursing facilities, and nursing facilities for mental health and residential health care. ** Health facilities include hospitals, home health agencies, long-term care, mental retardation, and psychiatric. The HMPC has determined the hazardous material incident would be highly likely. Based on past experience, they feel there is potential for a railroad type of incident. Reno County, Kansas 3.58

59 Figure 3.21 Railroad Lines in the City of Hutchinson Reno County, Kansas 3.59

60 Figure 3.22 Railroad Lines in Reno County Highly Likely: Level 4 Event is probable within the calendar year Magnitude/Severity: The HMPC determined even though the probability was highly likely of a hazardous materials incident occurring, the magnitude and severity would result in a limited amount of damage. Limited: Level percent of property severely damaged Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 3.2 High Reno County, Kansas 3.60

61 Land Subsidence Description Subsidence is caused when the ground above manmade or natural voids collapses. Subsidence can be related to mine collapse, underground water and oil withdrawal, or natural causes such as shrinking of expansive soils, and cave collapses. For example, if it is water being extracted, the rock compacts because the water is partly responsible for holding the ground up. When the water is withdrawn, the rocks fall in on it. Land subsidence may go unnoticed in some instances because it can occur over large areas rather than in a small spot, such as a sinkhole. In Kansas, this risk is the highest in the southeast corner of the State, where subsidence events are primarily due to coal, lead, and zinc mining. Reno County is also at risk due to a large number of salt solution mines. Subsidence is a global problem and in the U.S. more than 17,000 square miles of 45 States have been directly affected by subsidence. More that 80 percent of the identified subsidence in the Nation has occurred because of exploitation of underground water, and the increasing development of land and water resources threatens to exacerbate existing land-subsidence problems and initiate new ones.( Warning Time: hours Duration: 4 more than one week Geographic Location Land subsidence is common in Reno County because of the salt solution mines. Salt mining started back in the early 1900s with small wells and storage caverns that were two acres or less. Although the lateral area for these caverns is relatively small, due to the mining technique used to solution the salt, in nearly all the older well caverns, the salt roofs are relatively thin or completely absent. The largest problem is because the geographic location is not known. Therefore, the HMPC has determined that action needs to be taken to locate potential sink holes. Reno County, Kansas 3.61

62 Table 3.22 Salt Mining Operations from s in Reno County Location Number of Companies Currently Active Mining Companies Estimated No. of Wells Wells Known to be plugged Estimated Total Wells Void Space in Acres Risk Category South Hutchinson II Hutchinson II Nickerson II Total Source: Subsurface Void Space and Sinkhole/Subsidence Area Inventory for the State of Kansas, KDHE, 2006 Table 3.23 Salt Mining Operations from in Reno County Name of Company Wells Known to be Plugged Active Wells Monitoring Salt Wells or Collapsed Wells Total Salt Wells Void Space in Acres Acreage in Risk Category I Acreage in Risk Category II Cargill 5 15 Possible IMC (Carey) Abandoned 78 0 Possible Morton None Reported Total , Source: Subsurface Void Space and Sinkhole/Subsidence Area Inventory for the State of Kansas, KDHE, 2006 In 2006, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment prepared a report on Subsurface Void Space and Sinkhole/Subsidence Area Inventory for the State of Kansas. The report inventoried subsurface void space from oil and gas exploration and production, natural sources, shaft mining, and solution mining. In Reno County, the subsurface void spaces have been created from the Lost Circulation Zone which is the dissolution of the salt and gypsum present in the Wellington Formation. This area extends from north of Salina to the Oklahoma border. The void spaces are also created from salt solution mining, rock salt mining, and hydro-carbon storage areas for a total subsurface void space of 97,609 acres. Reno County, Kansas 3.62

63 Table 3.24 Total Subsurface Void Space in Reno County Type of Void Space Number of Acres Lost Circulation Zone 94,720 Salt Solution Mining Void Space 1,260 Rock Salt Mining Void Space 925 Hydro-carbon Storage Areas 704 Total 97,609 Previous Occurrences Figure 3.23 is a photograph of a sinkhole in Hutchinson that happened in January of The sinkhole had developed at the old Carey salt solution mining facility near the BNSF mainline railroad tracks. Figure 3.23 Hutchinson Sinkhole Source: Mike Cochran, KDHE Bureau of Water, Geology Section Chief In 1998, surface monitoring began by the Kansas Geological Survey for the Kansas Department of Transportation of a sinkhole at the intersection of U.S. Hwy 50 and Victory Road in Reno County when the depression measured about 1 foot below construction grade. The sinkhole has been documented to average a subsidence rate of 10 inches per year resulting in a drop of about 3.5 feet in the highway since construction. The Kansas Geological Survey concludes that there Reno County, Kansas 3.63

64 are sufficient rock layers still beneath this sinkhole to sustain the current subsidence rate of about 1 ft/yr for several years to come. The map below provided by Kansas Department of Transportation, depicts several areas of gradual and rapid subsidence in Reno County. Figure 3.24 Map of Subsidence Areas & Salt Mines in Central Kansas Source: Map, Indicates location of cross-section, Abbreviations: Hutchinson Navel Air Station (HNAS); U.S. Atomic Energy Commission (AEC); Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) (Walters, 1978). Reno County, Kansas 3.64

65 Probability of Future Occurrences According to the Kansas Geological Survey Circular, salt-dissolution sinkholes are found in all areas of Kansas where the Hutchinson Salt is present in the subsurface. Sinkholes have been correlated to the failed containment of disposal wells into which oil-field brine was injected. Natural dissolution of the Hutchinson Salt is not uncommon in the area and has been occurring for millions of years. Faults extending up to Pleistocene sediments containing fresh water under hydrostatic pressure are postulated as the conduits that instigated salt dissolution and subsidence along the western boundary of the salt in Kansas. The subsidence of sinkholes in Reno County has been occurring for millions of years and it will continue in the area for many more years. These rates are to some extent, related to the type of deformation in the salt and the strength of rocks directly above the salt layer. The HMPC has determined that because of the historical subsidence and sinkholes in Reno County, the probability would be likely. Likely: Level 3 Event is probable within the next three years Magnitude/Severity: The HMPC has determined the magnitude/severity is limited because of not knowing the location of where sinkholes may form. Also, according to the Kansas Geological Survey, there is no definite evidence that catastrophic subsidence could occur in Reno County. According to the Subsurface Void space and Sinkhole/Subsidence Area Inventory for the State of Kansas, nearly all of the sinkholes and subsidence areas develop slowly over a number of years and can create a shallow surface depression. Structures located over or near the subsidence areas are generally severely damaged or destroyed. At date, no sinkholes have developed over structures in Reno County, only open spaces and near roads. Limited: Level percent of property severely damaged Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 2.5 Moderate Landslide Description A landslide is the downhill movement of masses of soil and rock by gravity. The basic ingredients for landslides are gravity, susceptible soil or rock, sloping ground, and water. Types Reno County, Kansas 3.65

66 of landslides that occur in Kansas are rock falls, block slides, slumps, earth flows, and creep. Creep is widespread on hillsides throughout Kansas. Warning Time: Level 1 More than 24 hours Duration: Level 1 Less than 6 hours Geographic Location Landslides occur occasionally in Kansas and are a localized problem, but growth of cities provides potential for more property losses. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the areas of Kansas that are most prone to landslides are the Missouri River Corridor in northeastern Kansas. Reno County is in south central Kansas and not prone to landslides. Figure 3.25 is a map of the landside prone areas in Kansas. Figure 3.25 Landslide-Prone Areas of Kansas Source: Kansas Geological Survey, Note: Landslide risk is moderate in the shaded areas (1.5 percent to 15 percent of the area is landslide prone). Other areas in Kansas have a low landslide risk (less than 1.5 percent of area). Previous Occurrences There are no previous occurrences for Reno County. Reno County, Kansas 3.66

67 Probability of Future Occurrences Based on the fact there have been no past events and the large amount of infrastructure in the County, a damaging landslide is unlikely. Unlikely: Level 1 History of events is less than 10 percent likely per year Magnitude/Severity: Reno County does not have a history of landslides and thus the magnitude of this hazard is negligible. Negligible: Level 1 Less than 10 percent of property is severely damaged, shutdown of facilities and services for less than 24 hours; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable with first aid. Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 1.00 Low Lightning Description Severe thunderstorms strike Kansas on a regular basis with high winds, heavy rains, and the occasional subsequent flooding, often accompanied by lightning. Lightning is an electrical discharge between positive and negative regions of a thunderstorm. It is sudden, extremely destructive and potentially deadly. The National Weather Service reports that lightning caused 48 fatalities and 246 injuries nationwide in 2006 and causes 73 fatalities and 300 injuries in an average year. The National Lightning Safety Institute reports that lightning causes more than 26,000 fires in the United States each year. The institute estimates that the total cost for direct and indirect impacts of lightning including property damage, increased operating costs, production delays, and lost revenue to be in excess of $6 billion per year. Due to its nature as a powerful electrical phenomenon, lightning causes extensive damage to electronic systems that it contacts. Of particular concern in Kansas is the protection of facilities and communications systems that are critical for maintaining emergency response systems, protecting public health, and maintaining the state s economy. Average duration of each lightning stroke is 30 microseconds and duration of lightning storm events is usually less than six hours. Thunderstorm forecasting and warning time for lightning occurrence is generally less than six hours. Warning Time: Level hours Reno County, Kansas 3.67

68 Duration: Level 1 Less than 6 hours Geographic Location Lightning affects all areas of the Reno County planning area. Figures 3.26 and 3.27 indicate that the planning area averages days with thunderstorms per year per 10,000 square miles and four to eight lightning strikes per square kilometer per year. Figure 3.26 Distribution and Frequency of Thunderstorms Source: Oklahoma Climatological Survey Note: Black square indicates approximate location of Reno County Reno County, Kansas 3.68

69 Figure 3.27 Annual Frequency of Lightning in Kansas, Source: National Weather Service, Note: Black square indicates approximate location of Reno County Previous Occurrences The NCDC database records only indicate seven damaging lightning events in Reno County from 1994 to Although no deaths were reported for these storms, 1 injury and $146,000 in property damage was reported. The NCDC database captures only a very small portion of damaging lightning events; most are not reported. Those events causing property damage include the following: July 7, 1994-In Nickerson, three camels died when a lightning struck a tree near their pen. June 29, 1998-In Nickerson, a storage shed got fire from a lightning strike. One person sustained minor injuries. May 26, 2000-In Hutchinson, the chimney of a church was struck overnight. Several bricks broke off and fell through the roof. July 20, 2000-In Buhler, minor damage inflicted to one residence when the lightning traveled thru wiring to an electrical outlet. A second lightning destroyed several hay bales just east of Buhler. August 12, 2002-In Pretty Prairie, a house was struck by lightning & a fire caused roof and attic damage. Reno County, Kansas 3.69

70 March 31, 2006 A damaging thunderstorm and a small tornado went through the areas east of Hutchinson. A lightning strike started a grass fire east of Hutchinson in an area near 30 th Street and Obee Road burning up about 6,000 acres of ground and destroying around 20 buildings (six were homes). All the firefighters in Reno County plus the surrounding counties of Rice, Harvey, & Sedgwick were all assisting to contain this fire and from jumping across the Buhler-Haven Road. The Red Cross operated an evacuation center for the residents that were evacuated. May 22, 2006-In South Hutchinson a lightning strike set a home ablaze. Lightning struck a 100-foot tall radio antenna located in a field just north of the home. The antenna was connected to a radio in the affected home by a cable. The fire rendered the home uninhabitable but no one was injured. Probability of Future Occurrences National Weather Service data indicates that Reno County is in a region that receives four to eight lightning strikes per square kilometer per year. However, most of these lightning strikes do not result in damages. Considering that most lightning strikes do not damage property or impact public safety, the HMPC determined the probability of damaging events to be probable in any given year. Occasional: Level 2 Event is probable within the next five years. Magnitude/Severity Although the frequency of lightning events is high, the magnitude is limited. Generally damages are limited to single buildings and in most cases, personal hazard insurance covers any losses. The HMPC has determined the overall magnitude and severity is considered negligible. Negligible: Level 1 Less than 10 percent of property is severely damaged, shutdown of facilities and services for less than 24 hours; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable with first aid. Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 1.6 Low Soil Erosion and Dust Description Soil erosion and dust are both ongoing problems for Kansas. Both can cause significant loss of valuable agricultural soils, damage crops, harm environmental resources, and have adverse economic impacts. Soil erosion in Kansas is largely associated with periods of drought (wind Reno County, Kansas 3.70

71 erosion) and flooding (stream bank erosion). Improper agricultural and grazing practices can also contribute to soil erosion. The United States is losing soil 10 times faster than the natural replenishment rate, and related production losses cost the nation $37.6 billion each year. Wind erosion is responsible for about 40 percent of this loss and can increase markedly in drought years. Wind erosion physically removes the lighter, less dense soil constituents such as organic matter, clays and silts. Thus it removes the most fertile part of the soil and lowers soil productivity, which can result in lower crop yields or poorer grade pastures and increase economic costs. Stream bank erosion, which can remove agricultural land and damage transportation systems and utility lines, occurs each year, particularly in the spring. A large proportion of all soil eroded ends up in rivers, streams, and lakes, which makes waterways more prone to flooding and contamination. One type of stream bank erosion occurs after heavy rains when water is released from reservoirs causing water levels to rise in rivers and streams. The dry soil at the top of embankments becomes saturated. When reservoir gates are closed and flows return to normal, water levels suddenly drop and the heavy wet soil at the top of the embankments falls into the rivers and streams below. Erosion increases the amount of dust carried by wind. Dust can also threaten agriculture and have economic impacts by reducing seedling survival and growth, increasing the susceptibility of plants to certain stressors, and damaging property and equipment (e.g. clogging machinery parts). It is also a threat to health and safety. It acts as an abrasive and air pollutant and carries about 20 human infectious disease organisms (including anthrax and tuberculosis). There is evidence that there is an association between dust and asthma. Some studies indicate that as much as 20 percent of the incidences of asthma are related to dust. Blowing dust can be severe enough to necessitate highway closures because of low visibility, which can cause vehicle accidents. Erosion also creates a problem by filling in reservoirs with silt, negatively impacting storage capacity and water quality. Because of differing climatic conditions, land uses, and physical attributes in the various watersheds, sedimentation rates vary among the reservoirs. In 2001, the Kansas Water Office completed a report that projected the effect of sedimentation on Stateowned storage in federal reservoirs. By the year 2040, sedimentation was projected to reduce the total amount of State-owned storage from 1.2 million acre-feet to roughly 857,000 acre-feet, a rate of loss of 6,260 acre-feet per year. Warning Time: Level 1 More than 24 hours Duration: Level 4 More than one week Reno County, Kansas 3.71

72 Geographic Location Figure 3.28 shows areas of excessive erosion of farmland in Kansas based on a 1997 analysis. Each red dot represents 5,000 acres of excessive erosion of farmland, and each yellow dot represents 5,000 acres with erosion above a tolerable rate. In Reno County and the south central portion of Kansas the erosion rate of land is less high, but the soil loss is still occurring above a tolerable rate. Figure 3.28 Locations of Excessive Erosion of Farmland, 1997 Source: Kansas Hazard Mitigation Plan, November 2007 Note: Black square indicates approximate location of Reno County On a broader geographic scale, Figure 3.29 shows that south central Kansas, including Reno County, is inside the area identified by the USDA as vulnerable to severe wind erosion. Reno County, Kansas 3.72

73 Figure 3.29 USDA Wind Erosion Areas in the United States Source: U.S. Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service Wind Erosion Research Unit, Note: Blue square indicates approximate location of Reno County Previous Occurrences Dust storms and soil erosion impact the planning area to varying degrees on an annual basis. No specific dust storm events are recorded. Previous occurrences of notable soil erosion in the planning area have occurred during flood events. These impacts are discussed in the flood hazard profile. Probability of Future Occurrences While soil erosion and dust occur annually as part of natural processes, the adverse effects of erosion are only fully realized as a cumulative function. Therefore, the probability of notable effects from soil erosion and dust events is considered occasional; meaning the cumulative effect of annual events reaches a notable level on the average of every five years. Occasional: Level 2 Event is probable within the next five years. Magnitude/Severity Negligible: Level 1 Less than 10 percent of property is severely damaged, shutdown of facilities and services for less than 24 hours; and/or injuries/illnesses treatable with first aid. Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 1.75 Low Reno County, Kansas 3.73

74 Tornado Description The National Weather Service defines a tornado as a violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes are the most violent of all atmospheric storms and are capable of tremendous destruction. Wind speeds can exceed 250 miles per hour (mph), and damage paths can be more than 1 mile wide and 50 miles long. In an average year, more than 900 tornadoes are reported in the United States, resulting in approximately 80 deaths and more than 1500 injuries. High winds not associated with tornadoes are profiled separately in this document in Section Windstorm. Although tornadoes have been documented on every continent, they occur most frequently in the United States east of the Rocky Mountains. Kansas is situated in an area that is generally known as Tornado Alley. Climatological conditions are such that warm and cold air masses meet in the center of the country to create conditions of great instability and fast moving air at high pressure that can ultimately result in formation of tornado funnels. In Kansas, most tornadoes and related deaths and injuries occur during the months of April, May, and June. However, tornadoes have struck in every month. While most tornadoes occur between 3:00 and 9:00 p.m., a tornado can strike at any time. Warning time for tornadoes is generally less than six hours. The National Weather Service issues tornado watches and warnings. Prior to February 1, 2007, tornado intensity was measured by the Fujita scale. This scale was revised to the Enhanced Fujita scale, which provides more damage indicators (28) and associated degrees of damage, allowing for more detailed analysis and better correlation between damage and wind speed. It is also more precise because it takes into account the materials affected and the construction of structures damaged by a tornado. Table 3.25 shows the wind speeds associated with the Enhanced Fujita Scale ratings. Table 3.25 Enhanced Fujita Scale Enhanced Fujita Scale Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale Wind Estimate (mph) EF EF EF EF EF EF5 Over 200 Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Storm Prediction Center, Warning Time: Level 4 less than six hours Duration: Level 1 Less than 6 hours Reno County, Kansas 3.74

75 Geographic Location The entire planning area is at risk for tornadoes. Some areas of Kansas have experienced a greater number of high intensity tornadoes than others. Figure 3.30 illustrates the number of F3, F4, and F5 tornadoes recorded in the United States per 3,700 square miles between 1950 and Reno County is located in the section shaded dark orange or red, indicating tornadoes of this magnitude during this 48-year period. Figure 3.30 Tornado Activity in the United States Source: NOAA, Storm Prediction Center Note: Black square indicates approximate location of Reno County All of Reno County, including all of the participating jurisdictions, is at risk to tornadoes. Previous Occurrences According to the NCDC database, 67 tornadoes occurred in Reno County between 1950 and Of these, 42 were rated F0, 11 were rated F1, 7 were rated F2, 5 were rated F3, 1was rated F4, and 1 was rated F5. Total personal property damage was estimated at $60 million. There were 17 injuries due to tornadoes reported during this time period. Table 3.26 summarizes these events. Reno County, Kansas 3.75

76 Table 3.26 Recorded Tornadoes in Reno County, Location Date Magnitude Injuries Property Damage Reno County 5/1/1954 F2 0 $3,000 Reno County 8/5/1954 F2 0 0 Reno County 6/1/1955 F0 0 0 Reno County 6/3/1955 F0 0 0 Reno County 6/21/1957 F1 0 0 Reno County 5/4/1959 F2 0 0 Reno County 5/4/1959 F1 0 0 Reno County 5/24/1962 F2 2 0 Reno County 5/24/1962 F1 2 0 Reno County 5/24/1962 F3 2 0 Reno County 5/24/1962 F3 0 $250,000 Reno County 6/4/1965 F3 2 $250,000 Reno County 6/7/1967 F0 0 0 Reno County 6/11/1967 F1 0 $250,000 Reno County 11/19/1973 F0 0 $25,000 Reno County 5/13/1974 F1 0 $2,500,000 Reno County 5/13/1974 F2 2 $2,500,000 Reno County 5/13/1974 F2 0 0 Reno County 6/13/1984 F0 0 0 Reno County 6/13/1984 F0 0 0 Reno County 6/23/1984 F1 0 $25,000 Reno County 8/23/1985 F0 0 $25,000 Reno County 4/27/1986 F0 0 0 Reno County 5/31/1988 F0 0 0 Reno County 6/26/1988 F0 0 0 Reno County 6/26/1988 F0 0 0 Reno County 3/11/1990 F0 0 0 Reno County 3/13/1990 F5 1 $25,000,000 Reno County 3/13/1990 F3 0 $250,000 Reno County 6/7/1990 F2 0 $2,500,000 Reno County 6/19/1990 F1 0 $25,000 Reno County 8/14/1990 F0 0 0 Reno County 3/26/1991 F3 1 $250,000 Reno County 3/26/1991 F4 5 $25,000,000 Reno County 3/26/1991 F0 0 0 Turon 5/17/1993 F0 0 0 Arlington 5/22/1995 F0 0 0 Pretty Prairie 5/22/1995 F0 0 0 Arlington 5/9/1996 F1 0 0 Nickerson 5/18/1997 F0 0 0 Nickerson 5/18/1997 F0 0 0 Reno County, Kansas 3.76

77 Location Date Magnitude Injuries Property Damage Sylvia 5/18/1997 F0 0 0 Haven 5/25/1997 F0 0 $250,000 Buhler 6/8/1998 F0 0 0 Buhler 5/4/1999 F1 0 $1,000,000 Haven 9/26/1999 F0 0 0 Pretty Prairie 4/11/2002 F0 0 0 Sylvia 5/11/2002 F0 0 0 Sylvia 5/11/2002 F0 0 0 Haven 6/15/2002 F0 0 0 Partridge 7/9/2003 F0 0 0 Langdon 7/9/2003 F0 0 0 Partridge 7/3/2005 F0 0 0 Arlington 7/3/2005 F0 0 0 Pretty Prairie 7/3/2005 F0 0 0 Pretty Prairie 7/3/2005 F1 0 $60,000 Hutchinson 3/30/2006 F0 0 $80,000 Nickerson 4/24/2007 F0 0 0 Nickerson 4/24/2007 F0 0 0 Nickerson 4/24/2007 F0 0 0 Nickerson 4/24/2007 F0 0 0 Nickerson 4/24/2007 F0 0 0 Nickerson 4/24/2007 F0 0 0 Langdon 5/6/2007 F0 0 0 Hutchinson 5/6/2007 F0 0 0 Whiteside 5/23/2008 F1 0 $65,000 Source: National Climatic Data Center (NCDC); Note: Zero (0) values may indicate missing data. May 4, 1999-The tornado in Buhler was viewed by school children on their way to a track meet. No one was harmed by this tornado and school officials were able to get the kids to safety. During , Reno County received USDA emergency designations two times for tornadoes; once in 2005 and once in Reno County, Kansas 3.77

78 Figure 3.31 Destructive Path of F5 Tornado, March 13, Source: The Hutchinson News Probability of Future Occurrences The National Severe Storms Laboratory calculated probability of significant (F2 or larger) and violent (F4 or larger) tornadoes based on time of year for the period Figure 3.32 indicates the probability of F2 or greater tornadoes over a 100-year interval for the United States. Probability contours were calculated based on tornado occurrence, magnitude, and location data gathered for the period of Based on these estimates of probability, Reno County is likely to experience approximately violent tornado occurrences over a 100-year period. Many of these will occur in areas that are not populated and therefore would not cause significant damage; the probability of violent tornados impacting towns is lower than the overall regional probability represented in the map. Reno County, Kansas 3.78

79 Figure 3.32 Frequencies of F2 or Larger Tornadoes, Source: NSSL, Note: Black rectangle indicates approximate location of Reno County Based on NCDC records of 67 tornado events over a 58-year period in Reno County, there is a 100 percent probability of a tornado occurring in any given year. This, along with the location of Reno County in a high tornado activity zone, makes the probability of future tornado occurrence highly likely according to the definitions set forth in the hazard profile methodology. Highly Likely: Level 4 Event is probable within the next year Magnitude/Severity The most severe tornado impacts on record in Reno County resulted from an F5 tornado that touched down in March The tornado was 1320 yards wide and traveled 21 miles in a north western direction, causing an estimated $25 million in damages, and caused one injury before moving on to Harvey County. According to NCDC reports, another devastating tornado happened in March The tornado was 300 yards wide and traveled 13 miles in north western direction, causing an estimated $25 million in damages, and also caused 5 injuries. The HMPC has determined that the worst-case scenario should be considered for mitigation planning Reno County, Kansas 3.79

80 purposes. In Reno County, the worst-case scenario tornado event would be an EF5 rated tornado striking a population center in the planning area. Catastrophic: Level 4 More than 50 percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of facilities for more than 30 days; and/or multiple deaths. Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 3.7 High Utility/Infrastructure Failure Description Critical infrastructure involves several different types of facilities and systems: transportation, power systems, natural gas and oil pipelines, water and sewer systems, storage networks, and telecommunications facilities. State and locally designated critical facilities, such as hospitals, government centers, etc., are also considered critical infrastructure. Failure of utilities or other components of the infrastructure in the planning area could seriously impact public health, the functioning of communities, and the economy. Disruption of any of these services could result as a secondary impact from drought, flood, tornado, windstorm, winter storm, lightning, and extreme heat (water systems are particularly vulnerable to drought). Warning Time: Level 4 less than six hours Duration: Level 3 Less than one week Geographic Location Power Providers/Infrastructure Utility lines and critical infrastructure are located throughout Reno County, concentrated in the county s population centers and on lines connecting them. Figure 3.33 below shows the locations of petroleum facilities, petroleum pipelines, electric transmission lines, and gas transmission pipelines in Reno County. Reno County, Kansas 3.80

81 Figure 3.33 Reno County Utilities and Infrastructure Reno County, Kansas 3.81

82 Electric Providers Electricity providers in Reno County include: Ark Valley Electric Coop, Kansas Gas & Electric Co, Kansas Power & Light Co, Midwest Energy, Ninnescah Rural Electric Coop, Sedgwick County Electric Coop, Aquila Networks, and a small portion of the County receives their electricity from the municipality of Sterling in neighboring Rice County. The locations of these suppliers are provided in the map in Figure Figure 3.34 Electric Map of Reno County, Kansas Source: Kansas Corporation Commission, Water Supply The water suppliers in Reno County are Reno County Rural Water District No. 1, 3, 4, 8, and 101. The supply areas are depicted in the map in Figure 3.35 for these main water supplies. Reno County, Kansas 3.82

83 Figure 3.35 Reno County Public Water Supply Systems Source: Kansas Rural Water Association, Natural Gas Public Utilities The natural gas public utilities in Reno County are Kansas Gas Service and Aquila Networks- KGO and individual cities. The service areas are provided in the map in Figure 3.36 Reno County, Kansas 3.83

84 Figure 3.36 Certified Areas of Natural Gas Public Utilities in Reno County Source: Kansas Corporation Commission, Previous Occurrences In January 2001, 143 million cubic feet of compressed natural gas leaked from a nearby storage field. The natural gas migrated underground, and then rose to the surface through old brine wells creating about 15 gas blowholes. An explosion in downtown Hutchinson destroyed two businesses and damaged many others. Another explosion occurred the next day at a mobile home park three miles away from the first explosion. Two residents died of injuries from the explosion and hundreds of people were evacuated as gas geysers began erupting in the area. Some geysers reached as high as 30 feet in the air. Below is a photo courtesy of the Hutchinson News. It was the largest of several natural gas geysers that spewed dirt, water and gas northwest of the Big Chief Mobile Home Park in Hutchinson. Reno County, Kansas 3.84

85 Figure 3.37 Gas Geyser in Hutchinson Source: The Hutchinson News, January 2001 Each year disruptions to utility services ranging from minor to serious are a secondary result of other hazard events including drought, flood, tornado, windstorm, winter storm, lightning, and extreme heat. March 16-17, 1998 Widespread freezing rain across central and parts of south-central Kansas caused $1 million dollars in property damage. There was extensive damage done to trees, power lines and power poles. January 28-31, 2002 Widespread freezing rain and sleet covered Reno County, with an accumulation of 1-2 inches of ice on power lines. The result was numerous power outages and $15 million in property damage. January 4-6, 2005 An icy winter storm left several communities in Reno County without power. The icy weather caused downed power lines and broken poles all over the County. Governor Kathleen Sebelius declared a state of disaster emergency for 56 counties. This powerful storm caused three fatalities, two injuries, and $30 million in property damage for all of central and most of south-central Kansas. December 10, 2007 Two inches of ice accumulated in Reno County during an ice storm. The ice caused roughly 2000 downed power poles and 7900 downed power lines. The damage to the electrical infrastructure was estimated to by $37.5 million. June 14, 2009 Severe storms produced dime to golf ball size hail and damaging straight-line winds gusts up to 90 mph reported near Hutchinson. The caused rood damage to residences and businesses. The City of Hutchinson Public Works Building has structural damage with A/C units blown off the rook and metal doors blown in. Tree damage also resulted in downed power lines with numerous power outages. (Source: KDEM & National Weather Service, dated June 18, 2009) Reno County, Kansas 3.85

86 Probability of Future Occurrences Infrastructure failure can occur as a secondary impact as a result of winter storm, tornado, windstorm, flood, dam and levee failure, lightning, extreme heat and/or solar storm activity. The next 11-year cycle of solar storms will most likely start in March 2008 and peak in late 2011 or mid In addition, this hazard can occur as a result of unintentional equipment failure or intentional equipment failure. Due to the numerous potential causes of infrastructure failure, the HMPC determined the probability of this hazard to be highly likely. Highly Likely: Level 4 Event is probable within the next year Magnitude/Severity When utility/infrastructure failure does occur, utility providers generally respond quickly to restore service. However, depending on the cause of the utility disruption, events of prolonged outage do occur. Reno County is particularly vulnerable to winter storm events (discussed in the Section ). This is a common cause of utility failure and can lead to prolonged outages. Critical: Level percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of facilities for at least two weeks; and/or injuries and/or illnesses result in permanent disability Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 3.6 High Wildfire Description Wildfires in Kansas typically originate in pasture or prairie areas following the ignition of dry grasses (by natural or human sources). Since protecting people and structures takes priority, a wildfire s cost to natural resources, crops, and pastured livestock can be ecologically and economically devastating. In addition to the health and safety impacts to those directly affected by fires, the state is also concerned about the health affects of smoke emissions in surrounding areas. Wildfires in Kansas are frequently associated with lightning and drought conditions, as dryconditions make vegetation more flammable. Wind is another factor that can quickly increase the size and severity of fire. As new development encroaches into the wildland-urban interface (areas where development occurs within or immediately adjacent to wildlands, near fire-prone trees, brush, and/or other vegetation), more and more structures and people are at risk. On occasion, ranchers, farmers or land managers will intentionally ignite vegetation to restore soil Reno County, Kansas 3.86

87 nutrients or alter the existing vegetation growth. These controlled burn fires have the potential to erupt into wildfires if wind conditions rapidly change or if adequate safeguards are not in place. The Western States Fire Manager s office reports that careless debris burning was the leading cause of wildfire in Kansas for the period, accounting for 42 percent of the out-ofcontrol fires. Careless cigarette use and suspected arson activities were tied for second place at 7 percent each. The onset of wildfire can be rapid, particularly when fire starts in a remote area and is fanned by strong winds. The duration of wildfire in Kansas is somewhat shorter than wildfires that occur in sloped and heavily forested areas, and generally are extinguished in less than one day. Warning time is generally adequate for safe evacuation of threatened properties, but is less than six hours for locations close to the point of ignition. The National Weather Service provides Red Flag Warnings when weather conditions may result in extreme fire hazard conditions. These are issued when a fire has occurred and/or when the fire weather forecaster has a high degree of confidence that Red Flag criteria will occur within 24 hours of issuance. Red Flag criteria are met when the National Fire Danger Rating System (NFDRS, see Figure 3.38) adjective class rating level is high to extreme and the following weather parameters are forecast to be met: 1) sustained wind 15 mph or greater 2) relative humidity less than or equal to 25 percent 3) temperature greater than 75 degrees F. In some states, dry lightning and unstable air are criteria. A Fire Weather Watch may be issued prior to the Red Flag Warning. Figure 3.38 NFDRS/Wildland Fire Assessment System Adjective Class Rating! Reno County, Kansas 3.87

88 ! " " "#$ " " # # Source: US Forest Service Warning Time: Level 4 less than six hours Duration: Level 2 Less than one day Geographic Location The Kansas Forest Service completed a Community Wildfire Hazard Assessment Report for Reno County in January This report, included in its entirety in Appendix C details the conclusions of the status of Wildland Urban Interface issues that might have an impact on the safety of persons and/or property in Reno County Kansas. To complete the assessment, Forest Service personnel obtained baseline data on the Wildland Urban Interface boundaries from the USGS website Geo Mac ( This data was then confirmed with a windshield survey. The assessment concludes the following: South Hutchinson, Buhler, Haven, Pretty Prairie, Turon, and Sylvia, Abbyville, and Partridge have overall low wildfire hazard ratings. There are hazardous fuel loads of native grasses, timber litter, and eastern red cedar that will create concern if the growth and density continue to increase. At the current time, most of the properties in the wildland-urban interface seem to have good clearances. The City of Willowbrook has an overall low hazard rating with well maintained defensible space. There are however, several structures in the area that would benefit from defensible space maintenance, because there is sufficient amount of fuel load in the area s wild lands to carry an intense enough wildfire to cause significant Wildfire Urban Interface (WUI) damage. Nickerson and Arlington have moderate wildfire hazard ratings. In most years, the communities of Nickerson and Arlington do not have significant risk. However, in years of extreme drought, the concentrations of fuels in the timbered areas of these communities could carry intense fires through the dead and down hardwood fuels that are intermixed with eastern red cedars and grasses. Reno County, Kansas 3.88

89 Langdon has a moderate wildfire hazard rating. This community is a concern due to the heavy fuel loads of hardwood timber in close proximity to structures. Hardwood timber poses a threat to structures, especially in times of drought. The City of Plevna has a moderate wildfire hazard rating. The defensible space within the community was well maintained, but the concern is the narrow fuel breaks between the community and the surrounding wild land fuels. There are several communities within Hutchinson that have a high hazard rating. Larger communities should have sufficient breaks in loads of fuel to prevent the spread of wildfire due to vegetation. It is the areas immediately surrounding the city that were observed to have several residences and other structures that are in close proximity to heavy concentrations of hazardous wildland fire fuel loads. Figure 3.39 and figure 3.40 provide the locations of the areas surveyed as well as the risk level determination. Reno County, Kansas 3.89

90 Figure 3.39 Reno County Wildfire Assessment Findings Source: Kansas Forest Service Reno County, Kansas 3.90

91 Figure 3.40 Wildfire Assessment Hutchinson Area Source: Kansas Forest Service Reno County, Kansas 3.91

92 There is an increased risk in agricultural areas where Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) land is burned and in rural areas where individuals burn trash or debris. During high wind conditions, these small fires can get out of control and spread to dry vegetation such as native grasses, shrubs, and invasive eastern red cedar trees. Previous Occurrences According to data from the Kansas State Fire Marshal s Office, 566 wildfires occurred in Reno County between 2003 and was the most devastating, with one fatality. In 2004 only 449 acres burned but $1,571,555 in property damage occurred. The table below details information on previous wildfire occurrence compiled by the State Fire Marshal s Office. Table 3.27 Wildfires in Reno County, Year #Fires Injuries Fatalities Dollar Loss ($) Acres Burned , ,571, , ,520 1,020 Total ,374,395 2,919 4-Year Average , Source: Kansas State Fire Marshal s Office February 9, 2006-a large grass fire started along the Reno/Harvey County line. It spread quickly due to recent drought conditions and high winds. It took 70 firefighting units from 6 counties to extinguish the fire. It burned approximately 8,800 acres and caused roughly $30,000 damage to ranch and farmland. March 31, 2006-According to the Kansas Forest Service Community Wildfire Report and the County Emergency Manager, the wildland/urban interface issue is not unheard of to citizens of Reno County, a lighting strike fire started near 30 th St. and Obee Rd in Hutchinson. By the time the fire was contained it burned 6,000 acres, over 20 structures, six houses, and numerous campers, automobiles and farm implements. There were 300 to 400 residents that were evacuated and the Red Cross operated an evacuation center. Probability of Future Occurrences About 75 percent of Kansas wildfires start during summer due to dry weather conditions. Reno County experiences, on average, 142 wildland/crop fires across 730 acres each year. Although small, wildfires do occur in Reno County on an annual basis. Future occurrences of this hazard are likely to increase if development in wildland-urban interface areas increases. Likely: Level 3 Event is probable within the next three years Reno County, Kansas 3.92

93 Magnitude/Severity Wildfires occur on an annual basis; however, most do not result in significant threat to life or property. The Kansas Forest Service wildfire hazard assessment found most of the County at low risk with some areas of moderate to high risk. Limited: Level percent of property severely damaged Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 2.75 Moderate Windstorm Description Straight-line winds are generally any thunderstorm wind that is not associated with rotation (i.e., not a tornado). These winds, which can exceed 100 mph, represent the most common type of severe weather and are the most common cause of thunderstorm damage. The National Weather Service defines high winds as sustained wind speeds of 40 mph or greater lasting for one hour or longer, or winds of 58 mph or greater for any duration. Since thunderstorms do not have a narrow track like a tornado, associated wind damage can be extensive and affect broad regions including multiple counties. Objects like trees, barns, outbuildings, high-profile vehicles, and power lines/poles can be toppled or destroyed, and roofs, windows, and homes can be damaged as wind speeds increase. One type of straight-line wind is the downburst, which can cause damage equivalent to a strong tornado and can be extremely dangerous to aviation. Thunderstorms over Kansas typically happen between late April and early September, but, given the right conditions, they can develop as early as March. They are usually produced by super cell thunderstorms or a line of thunderstorms that typically develop on hot and humid days. Warning time for severe windstorms is generally 6-12 hours but in certain cases wind gusts can occur with almost no warning. The duration of the peak intensity of windstorms is usually less than one day. The National Weather Service provides public warnings when atmospheric conditions increase the probability of windstorm occurrence. Warning Time: Level hours Duration: Level 2 Less than one day Reno County, Kansas 3.93

94 Geographic Location Figure 3.41 below shows the wind zones of the United States based on maximum wind speeds. Reno County is located within Wind Zone IV, the zone in the United States that has experienced the greatest number of and strongest windstorms. All of Reno County, including all participating jurisdictions is vulnerable to windstorms. Figure 3.41 Wind Zones in the United States Source: FEMA; Previous Occurrences According to the NCDC database, there were 296 windstorm occurrences in Reno County between 1956 and There were 20 injuries and 1 fatality recorded for that period, and the total property damage for the events between 1993 and 2008 is estimated at $17,236,000. July 1, A severe thunderstorm was reported mile per hour winds causing widespread damage in Hutchinson. The storm caused about $500,000 in property damage. September 29, 1995 High winds twisted the frame work of a local greenhouse in Reno County causing approximately $200,000 in property damage. April 14, 1999 High winds of 39-61knots tore through south central Kansas causing roughly $125,000 in property damage. These high winds caused downed trees and power Reno County, Kansas 3.94

95 lines, leaving 2,000 residents without power in Hutchinson. It also overturned ten tractor trailers in Reno County. August 12, 2002 A state of disaster was declared by the governor due to wind speeds between knots that caused many downed trees and power lines and poles, resulting in approximately 7,315 residents without power. One single-family home, five mobile homes, and a shed were completely destroyed due to the high winds. Five single-family homes and six mobile homes sustained major damage. There were 26 empty Union Pacific freight cars blown off a siding. Approximately 70 other structures had minor damage. The estimated property damage was $2 million. July 3, 2005 A thunderstorm rolled through the area causing the Governor Kathleen Sebelius to issue a declaration of disaster emergency for Reno County. There were 6 injuries and one fatality. Chaney Lake State Park reported major damage, including the marina, 125 boats, 35 campers, and mobile homes. The total property damage was estimated to be $12.5 million and the crop damage due to erosion and was approximately $2.0 million dollars. Roughly 155,000 acres of farmland were considered a total loss. Among the crops that were destroyed were wheat, corn, grain sorghum, and soybeans. June 6, 2006 Straight line winds between 80 to 100 mph hit the city of Turon. There was approximately $411,000 property damage. Numerous grain silos and bins were destroyed. There were also a transformer and several power poles damaged, causing the whole town to be without power. January 27, 2008 Numerous thunderstorms went through Reno County causing one injury and an estimated $80,000 in property damage. There were two semi-truck trailers that were blown over, as well as several fireworks tents. Six power poles were damaged resulting in 7,000 residents without power. FEMA-1849-DR: Severe Storms, Flooding, Straight-line Winds, and Tornadoes April 25-May 16, 2009 Reno County sustained wind damage twice during the disaster timeframe. On May 8, 2009, destructive straight line winds with a fast-moving bank of severe thunderstorms tracked southeast across the State. Winds reached 80 to 100 mph and knocked down power lines, uprooted large trees, and caused structural damage to some buildings. Then on June 14, 2009, severe storms produced dime to golf ball size hail and damaging straight-line winds gusts up to 90 mph reported near Hutchinson. This caused roof damage to residences and businesses. The City of Hutchinson Public Works Building has structural damage with A/C units blown off the rook and metal doors blown in. Tree damage also resulted in downed power lines with numerous power outages. Reno County received $624,000 from FEMA s Public Assistance for clean-up and repairs to public buildings. (Source: KDEM & National Weather Service, date June 18, 2009). According to the USDA Risk Management Agency, insured crop losses in Reno County as a result of excess wind conditions from 2005 to 2008 totaled $259,878. Table 3.28 provides a summary of claims paid, by year, crop, and hazard that caused damages. Reno County, Kansas 3.95

96 Table 3.28 Claims Paid in Reno County for Crop Loss as a Result of Excess Wind Conditions Year Crop Hazard Claims Paid ($) 2005 Wheat Wind/Excess Wind 11, Grain Sorghum Wind/Excess Wind 19, Wheat Wind/Excess Wind 120, Corn Wind/Excess Wind 108,601 Total 259,878 Source: USDA Risk Management Agency, 2009 Probability of Future Occurrences The National Severe Storms Laboratory calculated the probability of windstorms based on time of year for the period Based on a similar methodology described for the previous graph, Figure 3.42 below shows the probability of a windstorm (65 knots or greater) occurring on any given day at a location within a 25 mile radius of the center of Reno County. Figure 3.42 Annual Windstorm Probabilities in United States, Source: NSSL, Note: Black rectangle indicates approximate location of Reno County Reno County, Kansas 3.96

97 According to NCDC, there were 296 wind or thunderstorm/wind events in Reno County between 1950 and The HMPC has determined the probability of significant, damaging wind events is highly likely. Highly Likely: Level 4 Event is probable within the next year Magnitude/Severity Windstorms in Reno County are rarely life threatening, but can cause significant property and crop damage and have adverse economic impacts from business closures and infrastructure damage. Limited: Level percent of property severely damaged Hazard Summary Calculated Priority Risk Index Planning Significance 2.9 High Winter Storm Description Winter storms in Kansas typically involve snow, extreme cold, and/or freezing rain (ice storms). These conditions pose a serious threat to public safety, disrupt commerce and transportation, and can damage utilities and communications infrastructure. Winter storms can also disrupt emergency and medical services, hamper the flow of supplies, and isolate homes and farms. Heavy snow can collapse roofs and down trees onto power lines. Extreme cold conditions can stress or kill unprotected livestock and freeze water sources. Direct and indirect economic impacts of winter storms include cost of snow removal, damage repair, increased heating bills, business and crop losses, power failures and frozen or burst water lines. For humans, extreme cold can cause hypothermia (an extreme lowering of the body s temperature) and permanent loss of limbs due to frostbite. Infants and the elderly are particularly at risk, but anyone can be affected. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, approximately 600 adults die from hypothermia each year, with the isolated elderly being most at risk. Also at risk are those without shelter or live in a home that is poorly insulated or without heat. Other potential health and safety threats include toxic fumes from emergency heaters, household fires caused by fireplaces or emergency heaters, and driving in treacherous conditions. The National Weather Service describes different types of winter storm conditions as follows: Blizzard Winds of 35 mph or more with snow and blowing snow reducing visibility to less than 1/4 mile for at least three hours. Reno County, Kansas 3.97

98 Blowing Snow Wind-driven snow that reduces visibility. Blowing snow may be falling snow and/or snow on the ground picked up by the wind. Snow Squalls Brief, intense snow showers accompanied by strong, gusty winds. Accumulation may be significant. Snow Showers Snow falling at varying intensities for brief periods of time. Some accumulation is possible. Freezing Rain Measurable rain that falls onto a surface whose temperature is below freezing. This causes the rain to freeze on surfaces, such as trees, cars, and roads, forming a coating or glaze of ice. Most freezing-rain events are short lived and occur near sunrise between the months of December and March. Sleet Rain drops that freeze into ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet usually bounces when hitting a surface and does not stick to objects. Wind can greatly amplify the impact of cold ambient air temperatures and thus the severity of winter storms. Provided by the National Weather Service, Figure 3.43 below shows the relationship of wind speed to apparent temperature and typical time periods for the onset of frostbite. Figure 3.43 Wind Chill Chart Source: NOAA, National Weather Service, Duration of the most severe impacts of winter storms is generally less than one week, though dangerous cold, snow, and ice conditions can remain present for longer periods in certain cases. Weather forecasts are commonly predict the most severe winter storms at least 24 hours in advance, leaving adequate time to warn the public. Reno County, Kansas 3.98

99 Warning Time: Level hours Duration: Level 3 Less than one week Geographic Location All of Reno County is vulnerable to winter storm events. Figure 3.44 below shows average annual snowfall for the state of Kansas. North western Kansas receives the greatest average annual snowfall with upwards of 40 inches per year. The south central region of Kansas that includes Reno County, receives the least snowfall in the state, averaging 4.6 to 9.4 inches per year. The area of southeastern Kansas that includes Reno County receives more hours of freezing rain than any other region in Kansas. Figure 3.44 Average Annual Snowfall in Kansas Source: Kansas State University Weather Data Library, Note: Black square indicates Reno County Table 3.29 summarizes record low temperatures by month in Reno County from 1953 to Table 3.29 Record Low Temperatures by Month, 1953 to 2008 Month Minimum Temp. Month Minimum Temp. January -16 July 46 February -19 August 46 March -6 September 29 April 16 October 12 May 28 November 1 Reno County, Kansas 3.99

100 June 42 December -18 Source: High Plains Regional Climate Center, Previous Occurrences Reno County has received three federal disaster declarations for winter storms: March 16-17, 1998 Widespread freezing rain across central and parts of south-central Kansas caused $1 million dollars in property damage. There was extensive damage done to trees, power lines and power poles. January 28-31, 2002 Widespread freezing rain and sleet covered Reno County, with an accumulation of 1-2 inches of ice on power lines. The result was numerous power outages and $15 million in property damage. FEMA-1579-DR: Severe Winter Storm -January 4-6, 2005 An icy winter storm left several communities in Reno County without power. The icy weather caused downed power lines and broken poles all over the county. Governor Kathleen Sebelius declared a state of disaster emergency for 56 counties. This powerful storm caused three fatalities, two injuries, and $30 million in property damage for all of central and most of south-central Kansas. Many communities such as Pretty Prairie, incurred massive tree damage from this event. Jurisdictions in Reno County received $1,178,999 in FEMA s Public Assistance funds from this disaster. FEMA-1741-DR: Severe Winter Storm-December 10, 2007 Two inches of ice accumulated in Reno County during an ice storm. The ice caused roughly 2000 downed power poles and 7900 downed power lines. The damage to the electrical infrastructure was estimated to by $37.5 million. In particular, Partridge did not have electricity for five to six days, Plevna was without for seven to ten days, and Abbyville was without for nine days due to the event. Jurisdictions in Reno County received $1,873,404 in FEMA s Public Assistance funds from this disaster. FEMA-1848-DR: Severe Winter Storm and Record and Near Record Snow-March 27, A very significant late season Winter storm dumped one to two feet of snow across parts of Central, South Central and Southwest Kansas. The heavy snow and strong winds resulted in blizzard conditions in some of these areas from Friday March 27th into early Saturday March 28th. Reno County was in the area that received up to 20 inches of snow. Meanwhile, significant accumulations of ice from freezing rain and sleet also affected the Flint Hills and Southeast Kansas, with some snow accumulations before the wintry precipitation ended Saturday evening. Several areas reported power outages due to the snow, ice and wind. Jurisdictions in Reno County received $115,362 in FEMA s public Assistance funds from this disaster. Reno County, Kansas 3.100

101 Figure 3.45 City of Plevna s clean up and tree removal efforts after December 2007 event Source: City of Plevna According to the USDA Risk Management Agency, insured crop losses in Reno County as a result of winter weather conditions from 2005 to 2008 totaled over $13.3 million. Table 3.30 provides a summary of claims paid, by year, crop, and hazard that caused damages. Table 3.30 Claims Paid for Reno Crop Loss as a Result of Winter Weather Conditions Year Crop Hazard Claims Paid ($) 2005 Wheat Frost 51, Wheat Freeze 264, Wheat Cold Weather 11, Wheat Cold Wet Weather 22, Wheat Freeze 7, Wheat Frost 154, Wheat Freeze 11,025, Wheat Cold Winter 2, Canola Freeze 108, Oats Freeze 1, Barley Frost 1, Wheat Freeze 94, Wheat Cold Winter 175, Wheat Cold Wet Weather 1,291, Canola Cold Winter 42, Grain Sorghum Frost 14, Grain Sorghum Freeze 12, Grain Sorghum Cold Weather Soybeans Freeze 9, Soybeans Cold Wet Weather 24,708 Total 13,317,190 Reno County, Kansas 3.101

102 Source: USDA Risk Management Agency, 2009 Probability of Future Occurrences During the 15-year period from 1993 to 2008, there were 17 recorded winter storm events in Reno County. Based on that history, there is an annual likelihood of 100 percent for winter storms. Highly Likely: Level 4 Event is probable within the next year Magnitude/Severity Winter weather in Reno County, including ice storms, strong winds, and blizzard conditions, can result in property damage, localized power and phone outages and closures of streets, highways, schools, businesses, and nonessential government operations. People can also become isolated from essential services in their homes and vehicles. A winter storm can escalate, creating life threatening situations when emergency response is limited by severe winter conditions. Other issues associated with severe winter weather include hypothermia and the threat of physical overexertion that may lead to heart attacks or strokes. Critical: Level percent of property severely damaged; shutdown of facilities for at least two weeks; and/or injuries and/or illnesses result in permanent disability Hazard Profiles Summary Table 3.32 summarizes the results of the hazard profiles and how each hazard varies by jurisdiction. Of moderate and high ranked hazards, dam and levee failure, flood, hazardous materials, utility infrastructure, wildfire, extreme heat, land subsidence and sinkhole, and tornado hazards vary uniquely across the planning area. This assessment was used by the HMPC to prioritize those hazards of greatest significance to the planning area, enabling the County to focus resources where they are most needed. Those hazards that occur infrequently, or have little or no impact on the planning area, were determined to be of low significance. Those hazards determined to be of high significance were characterized as priority hazards that required further evaluation in Section 3.3 Vulnerability Assessment. Reno County, Kansas 3.102

103 Table 3.32 Planning Significance of Identified Hazard by Jurisdiction Hazards Agricultural Infestation Dam and Levee Failure Reno County Abbyville Arlington Buhler Haven Hutchinson Langdon Nickerson Partridge Plevna Pretty Prairie M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M L L L L L H L L L L L L H L L L H H L H H Drought L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L Disease Outbreak M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M Earthquake L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L Expansive L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L Soils Extreme Heat M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M H M M Flood H M H H H H M H M M M M H H H H H H M H H Sylvia Willowbrook Buhler USD 313 Fairfield USD 310 Haven USD 312 Hutchinson USD 308 Hutch Comm.College Ark Valley Electric Coop Hutch Correctional Fac Drainage District #3 Fog L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L Hailstorm M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M Hazardous Materials Land Sub Sinkhole H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H M M M M M M M H M M M M M M M M M M M H H L H M Landslide L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L Lightning L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L Soil Erosion and Dust L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L L Tornado H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H M Utility Failure H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H L Wildfire M L M L L H M M L M L L L M M M H H M L L Windstorm M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M M Winter Storm H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H Source: HMPC, H-High, M-Moderate, L-Low Reno County, Kansas 3.103

104 3.3 Vulnerability Assessment Requirement 201.6(c)(2)(ii) :[The risk assessment shall include a] description of the jurisdiction s vulnerability to the hazards described in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this section. This description shall include an overall summary of each hazard and its impact on the community. Requirement 201.6(c)(2)(ii)(A) :The plan should describe vulnerability in terms of the types and numbers of existing and future buildings, infrastructure, and critical facilities located in the identified hazard areas. Requirement 201.6(c)(2)(ii)(B) :[The plan should describe vulnerability in terms of an] estimate of the potential dollar losses to vulnerable structures identified in paragraph (c)(2)(i)(a) of this section and a description of the methodology used to prepare the estimate. Requirement 201.6(c)(2)(ii)(C): [The plan should describe vulnerability in terms of] providing a general description of land uses and development trends within the community so that mitigation options can be considered in future land use decisions Methodology The vulnerability assessment further defines and quantifies populations, buildings, critical facilities, and other community assets at risk from natural hazards. The vulnerability assessment for this plan followed the methodology described in the FEMA publication Understanding Your Risks Identifying Hazards and Estimating Losses (2002). The vulnerability assessment was conducted based on the best available data and the overall planning significance of the hazard. Data to support the vulnerability assessment was collected from the same sources identified in Section 3.1, Hazard Identification, and Section 3.2, Hazard Profiles, and from FEMA s HAZUS-MH MR3 loss estimation software. The vulnerability assessment is divided into four parts: Section Community Assets first describes the assets at risk in Reno County, including the total exposure of people and property; critical facilities and infrastructure; natural, cultural, and historic resources; and economic assets. Section Vulnerability by Hazard describes the vulnerability to each hazard identified in section 3.1 and profiled in section 3.2. This vulnerability analysis includes a vulnerability overview for each hazard. For hazards of high and moderate significance, the vulnerability analysis includes evaluation of vulnerable buildings, infrastructure, and critical facilities; estimated losses and a discussion of the methodology used to estimate losses. Section Future Land Use and Development discusses development trends, including population growth, housing demand, and land use patterns and an analysis in relation to hazard-prone areas. Reno County, Kansas 3.104

105 3.3.2 Community Assets This section assesses the population, structures, critical facilities and infrastructure, and other important assets in Reno County that may be at risk to natural hazards. Total Exposure of Population and Structures Table 3.33 shows the total population, number of structures, and assessed value of improvements to parcels by jurisdiction. Land values have been purposely excluded because land remains following disasters, and subsequent market devaluations are frequently short term and difficult to quantify. Additionally, state and federal disaster assistance programs generally do not address loss of land or its associated value. The greatest exposure of people and property is concentrated in the City of Hutchinson, though significant population and structures are spread out in the unincorporated areas of the County. Table 3.33 Maximum Population and Building Exposure by Jurisdiction Community Population 2007 Building Count Building Exposure ($) Contents Exposure ($) Total Exposure Value ($) Abbyville ,437,000 3,554,000 9,991,000 Arlington ,781,000 16,594,000 41,375,000 Buhler 1, ,020,000 57,748, ,768,000 Haven 1, ,783,000 46,780, ,563,000 Hutchinson 40,668 18,943 2,577,873,000 1,732,524,000 4,310,397,000 Langdon ,042,000 1,590,000 4,632,000 Nickerson 1, ,181,000 34,325,000 93,506,000 Partridge ,685,000 8,199,000 21,884,000 Plevna ,480,000 3,534,000 10,014,000 Pretty Prairie ,076,000 25,144,000 67,220,000 South 2,541 1, ,038, ,578, ,616,000 Hutchinson Sylvia ,559,000 8,428,000 21,987,000 Turon ,165,000 12,634,000 33,799,000 Willowbrook ,563, ,000 2,345,000 Unincorporated Reno County 13,923 8, ,069, ,030,000 1,709,099,000 Totals 63,145 33,019 4,132,752,000 2,809,444,000 6,942,196,000 Sources: Kansas Division of the Budget (population); HAZUS-MH (MR 3) (structures) Note: Incorporated, nonparticipating jurisdictions are the cities of South Hutchinson and Turon Critical Facilities and Infrastructure A critical facility may be defined as one that is essential in providing utility or direction either during the response to an emergency or during the recovery operation. Table 3.34 is an inventory of critical facilities in Reno County based on available data from the State of Kansas and from HAZUS-MH MR3, FEMA s GIS-based loss estimation software. Reno County, Kansas 3.105

106 Table 3.34 Inventory of Critical Facilities and Infrastructure by Jurisdiction Facility Reno County Abbyville Arlington Buhler Haven Hutchinson Langdon Nickerson Partridge Plevna Pretty Prairie South Hutchinson Airports 1 1 Colleges 1 Fire Stations Health Care Schools Waste Water Facility Correctional Facility 3 Electric 1 1 Elderly Facility EMS Critical Bridges 1 1 Source: FEMA HAZUS-MH MR3, HMPC Sylvia Turon Willowbrook Figures 3.46 through 3.54 on the following pages show the location of critical facilities, pipelines and infrastructure, and bridges in relation to cities and major highways in Reno County. This includes the Cities of Abbyville, Langdon, Partridge, Pretty Prairie, Sylvia, and Turon that do not have a floodplain in their city limits. The Cities of Arlington, Buhler, Haven, Hutchinson, Nickerson, Plevna, South Hutchinson, and Willowbrook s maps of critical facilities in relation to the 100-year floodplain are located in the Flood Vulnerability Section of Reno County, Kansas 3.106

107 Figure 3.46 Reno County Critical Facilities Reno County, Kansas 3.107

108 Figure 3.47 Reno County Pipelines and Power Infrastructure Reno County, Kansas 3.108

109 Figure 3.48 Reno County Bridges Reno County, Kansas 3.109

110 Figure 3.49 Abbyville Critical Facilities Reno County, Kansas 3.110

111 Figure 3.50 Langdon Critical Facilities Reno County, Kansas 3.111

112 Figure 3.51 Partridge Critical Facilities Reno County, Kansas 3.112

113 Figure 3.52 Pretty Prairie Critical Facilities Reno County, Kansas 3.113

114 Figure 3.53 Sylvia Critical Facilities Reno County, Kansas 3.114

115 Figure 3.54 Turon Critical Facilities Reno County, Kansas 3.115

116 Other Community Assets Assessing the vulnerability of Reno County to disaster also involves an inventory of natural, historic, cultural, and economic assets located in the planning area. This is important for the following reasons: The County may decide that these types of resources warrant a greater degree of protection due to their unique and irreplaceable nature and contribution to the overall economy. If these resources are impacted by a disaster, knowing about them ahead of time allows for more prudent care in the immediate aftermath, when the potential for additional impacts is higher. The rules for reconstruction, restoration, rehabilitation, and/or replacement are often different for these types of designated resources. Natural resources can have beneficial functions that reduce the impacts of natural hazards, such as wetlands and riparian habitat, which help absorb and attenuate floodwaters. Losses to economic assets (e.g., major employers or primary economic sectors) could have severe impacts on a community and its ability to recover from disaster. In Reno County, specific assets include the following: Natural Resources: There are five threatened species in the County: Arkansas Darter, Bald Eagle, Eastern Spotted Skunk, Piping Plover, and Snowy Plover. There are six endangered species in the County: Arkansas River Shiner, Arkansas River Speckled Chub, Eskimo Curlew, Least Tern, Peregrine Falcon, and Whooping Crane. Species noted in need of conservation include: Black Tern, Curve-billed Thrasher, Eastern Hognose Snake, Ferruginous Hawk, Glossy Snake, Golden Eagle, Long-billed Curlew, and Western Hognose Snake. Cultural resources: Kansas State Fair Grounds, Convention Center, Kansas Cosmosphere & Space Museum, Kansas Underground Salt Museum, Hutchinson Arts Center, Stringer Fine Arts Center, and the Reno County Museum are important cultural, as well as historic resources for the County. Historic resources: There are 21 properties on the National Register of Historic Places within Reno County. These properties are identified in Table Economic assets: According to the 2000 Census, the industries that employed the highest percentages of Dickinson County s labor force were health care, manufacturing and retail services. Table 3.35 Reno County Properties on the National Register of Historic Places Property Name Address Location Date Listed Downtown Core North Historic District Bounded by BNSF RR tracks, 1 st Ave, W side of N. Main & Poplar St Hutchinson 11/18/2004 Reno County, Kansas 3.116

117 Property Name Address Location Date Listed Downtown Core South Historic District Bounded by C Ave., the alley S of Sherman, Washington, & Poplar Sts Hutchinson 11/18/2004 Fox Theatre 18 E 1 st St Hutchinson 9/07/1989 Graber, John P.O., House 208 E 6 th Hutchinson 1/27/1994 Hamlin Block S Main Hutchinson 7/02/2008 Houston Whiteside Historic District Bounded by BNSF RR, Pershing, Hutchinson 11/26/2004 Ave. B, & Ave A, Plum & Elm Sts Hutchinson Carnegie Library 427 N. Main Hutchinson 6/25/1987 Building Hutchinson US Post Office 128 E. 1 st St Hutchinson 10/17/1989 Kansas Sugar Refining Company 600 E. 1 st St Hutchinson 1/03/1985 Mill Kelly Mills S Main Hutchinson 4/16/2008 Pactola Building Poplar Hutchinson 12/02/1989 Ranson Hotel 4918 E. Main Medora 11/20/2007 Reno County Courthouse 206 W 1 st Hutchinson 4/13/1987 Soldiers and Sailors Memorial 1 st Ave and Walnut St Hutchinson 5/24/2002 St. Theresa s Catholic Church 211 E 5 th Ave Hutchinson 4/29/1994 Sylvia Rural High School 203 Old Highway 50 Sylvia 11/17/2005 Terminal Station nd Ave Hutchinson 10/13/1983 Wall-Ratzlaff House 103 N Maple Buhler 4/30/1992 Whiteside, Houston, House 504 E Sherman Hutchinson 8/23/1986 Wolcott, Frank D., House 100 W 20 th Ave Hutchinson 5/06/1994 Women s Civic Center Club 925 N Main Hutchinson 10/29/1998 Source: Kansas State Historical Society, The HMPC identified nursing homes as vulnerable community assets that should be specifically addressed in emergency management planning. Community Assets by Jurisdiction Table 3.36 inventories the community assets identified by each participating jurisdiction. Information was compiled from an asset inventory developed for each jurisdiction by representatives from the HMPC. Table 3.36 Community Assets by Jurisdiction Replacement Community/Name of Asset Value ($) Reno County Hutchinson Hospital Reno County Emergency Medical Services 60,000,000 Reno County Courthouse 40,000,000 Meadow View Estates Not Reported Reno County Fire District 8 Station 1 100,000 Reno County, Kansas 3.117

118 Replacement Community/Name of Asset Value ($) Reno County Fire District 3 Station 2 100,000 Reno County Fire District 8 Station 2 100,000 Reno County Health Dept & HHA Not Reported KPL Western Resources Co Not Reported City of Abbyville Reno County Fire Department District 4 Station 2 100,000 City of Arlington Reno County Fire District 4 Station 1 100,000 Water Treatment Facility 400,000 Mandy s Daycare Not Reported City of Buhler Buhler Ambulance Service 80,000 Reno-Harvey Joint Fire District 2 100,000 Buhler Sunshine Home Not Reported City of Haven Haven Community Emergency Medical Services Not Reported Haven Fire Department Not Reported Drainage District Number 3-9 miles of Levee 5,000,000 City of Hutchinson Hutchinson Correctional Facility - Central Unit Not Reported Hutchinson Correctional Facility - East Unit Not Reported Hutchinson Correctional Facility - South Unit Not Reported Hutchinson Municipal Not Reported Elm Grove Estates Not Reported Panorama Lake Not Reported Waldron Place Not Reported Hutchinson Good Samaritan Center Not Reported Infinia at Hutchinson Not Reported Ray E Dillon Living Center Not Reported Wesley Towers Not Reported Golden Plains Health Care Center Not Reported Golden Years Senior Care Home Not Reported Hutchinson Fire Department Station 1 Not Reported Hutchinson Fire Department Station 2 Not Reported Hutchinson Fire Department Station 3 Not Reported Hutchinson Fire Department Station 4 Not Reported Hutchinson Fire Department Station 5 Not Reported Hutchinson Fire Department Station 6 Not Reported Hutchinson Fire Department Station 7 Not Reported Hutchinson Clinic ASC Not Reported Surgery Center Of South Central KS Not Reported Hutchinson Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC Not Reported Hutchinson Clinic Renal Dialysis Center Not Reported Hutchinson Dialysis LLC Not Reported Hutchinson Clinic Not Reported Medical Center PA Not Reported Prairiestar Health Center Inc Not Reported Reno County, Kansas 3.118

119 Community/Name of Asset Hospice Of Reno County Inc Healthsouth Sports Med & Rehab Center Care 2000 Home Healthcare Services Of Hutchinson Inc Homecare Of Hutchinson Care 2000 Homecare Wesley Towers HHA Hutchinson Hospital SNF Hutchinson Hospital Corporation City Of Hutchinson Sewage Treatment Plan City of Langdon Replacement Value ($) Not Reported Not Reported Not Reported Not Reported Not Reported Not Reported Not Reported Not Reported Not Reported City of Nickerson Shadowlands Elderly Facility Not Reported Reno County Fire District 3 Station 1 Not Reported Nickerson Waste Water Treatment Plant Not Reported City of South Hutchinson Mennonite Friendship Manor Inc Not Reported South Hutchinson Volunteer Fire Department Not Reported South Hutchinson Medical Center Not Reported Mennonite Friendship HHA Not Reported South Hutchinson City Of Sewage Treatment Plant Not Reported Ark Valley Electric Cooperative Not Reported City of Partridge Reno County Fire District 4 Station 4 Not Reported City Library Not Reported City Hall Not Reported Partridge Cafe Not Reported Paul s Auto Repair Not Reported Sanitary Sewer System Not Reported Partridge Natural Gas System Not Reported City of Plevna Reno County Fire District 4 Station 3 Not Reported City of Pretty Prairie Reno-Kingman Joint Fire District 1 1,000,000 Pretty Prairie Ambulance Service 300,000 Pretty Prairie Waste Water Treatment Plant 1,200,000 Prairie Sunset Home 4,000,000 City of Sylvia Reno County Fire District 6 - Sylvia Not Reported Sylvia Health Care Clinic Not Reported City Hall Not Reported Water Wells Not Reported Water Tower Not Reported Natural Gas Delivery System Not Reported City of Turon Reno County Fire District 7 Not Reported Turon City Of Waste Water Treatment Plant Not Reported City of Willowbrook Willowbrook City Of Sewage Treatment Plant Not Reported Reno County, Kansas 3.119

120 Source: Reno County HMPC Special Districts and Community Colleges Participating in Plan Development Based on the available data, Table 3.37 below lists replacement value and capacity information for community assets managed by school districts, community colleges and water districts. Table 3.37 Community Assets: School Districts and College Name of Asset Replacement Value ($) Occupancy/ Capacity Unified School District 308 Avenue A Elementary School Not Reported Not Reported Davis Warehouse Not Reported Not Reported Educational Service Center Not Reported Not Reported Faris Elementary School Not Reported Not Reported Graber Elementary School Not Reported Not Reported Lincoln Elementary School Not Reported Not Reported McCandless Elementary School Not Reported Not Reported Morgan Elementary School Not Reported Not Reported Wiley Elementary School Not Reported Not Reported Magnet School at Allen Not Reported Not Reported Hutchinson Center for Early Learning Not Reported Not Reported Hutchinson Elementary Magnet School at Allen Not Reported Not Reported Hutchinson Middle School - 7 Not Reported Not Reported Hutchinson Middle School - 8 Not Reported Not Reported Hutchinson High School Not Reported Not Reported Career & Technical Education Academy Not Reported Not Reported Football Stadium Not Reported Not Reported USD #308 Support Service Center Not Reported Not Reported Unified School District 310 Fairfield East Elementary School Not Reported Not Reported Fairfield West Elementary School Not Reported Not Reported Fairfield Middle School Not Reported Not Reported Fairfield High School Not Reported Not Reported Unified School District 311 Pretty Prairie Grade School Not Reported Not Reported Pretty Prairie Middle School Not Reported Not Reported Pretty Prairie High School 15,000,000 total 400 total Unified School District 312 Partridge Grade School Not Reported Not Reported Mount Hope Grade School Not Reported Not Reported Haven Grade School Not Reported Not Reported Haven Middle School Not Reported Not Reported Haven High School Not Reported Not Reported Pleasantview Academy Not Reported Not Reported Reno County, Kansas 3.120

121 Name of Asset Replacement Value ($) Occupancy/ Capacity Yoder Charter School Not Reported Not Reported Unified School District 313 Buhler Grade School Not Reported Not Reported Obee Elementary School Not Reported Not Reported Union Valley Elementary School Not Reported Not Reported Prairie Hills Middle School Not Reported Not Reported Buhler High School Not Reported Not Reported Not Reported Not Reported Hutchinson Community College Main Campus -18 buildings Not Reported Not Reported South Campus 3 buildings Not Reported Not Reported TV Channel 12 building Not Reported Not Reported Vulnerability by Hazard To focus on the most critical hazards, those assigned a level of high or moderate planning significance were given more extensive attention in the remainder of this analysis, while those with a low planning significance were addressed in more general or qualitative ways. For those hazards with a high or moderate level, this section provides the following information for each hazard: vulnerability overview, potential losses to existing development, and potential losses to future development. A vulnerability overview is provided for those hazards with a low planning significance. The planning significance levels are provided in Table 3.38 in alphabetical order. These planning significance levels take in to account the entire planning area. Table 3.38 Planning Significance Results, Listed Alphabetically by Hazard Hazard Type Probability Magnitude Warning Time Duration CPRI Planning Significance Agricultural Infestation Moderate Dam Failure Levee Failure Low Moderate Disease Outbreak Moderate Drought Low Earthquake Low Expansive Soils Low Extreme Heat Moderate Flood High Fog Low Hail Storm Moderate Hazardous Materials High Land Moderate Subsidence/Sinkhole Landslide Low Reno County, Kansas 3.121

122 Lightning Low Soil Erosion / Dust Low Tornado High Utility/Infrastructure High Failure Wildfire Moderate Wind Storm Moderate Winter Storm High Source: Reno County HMPC Agricultural Infestation Vulnerability Overview Planning Significance: Moderate. 732,000 acres are classified as farm land in Reno County representing 92 percent of the total area. In 2007, the value of crops harvested in Reno County was over $80.8 million and the value of cattle and milk production was over $52 million. A widespread infestation of agricultural products could seriously impact the economic base of the planning area. Potential Losses to Existing Development Buildings, infrastructure, and critical facilities are not vulnerable to this hazard. Rough estimates of potential direct losses fall in a range of 1 to 50 percent of annual crop receipts for the County and/or a 1 to 75 percent of livestock receipts. Based on a worst case scenario where 50 percent of crop production ($40.4 million) and 75 percent of livestock ($39 million) is lost in a given year due to agricultural infestations, the total direct costs could approach $79.4 million. Insurance paid by USDA s Risk Management Agency from for crop losses as a result of agricultural infestation totaled $147,566. This results in an average annual loss of $36, per year during this four-year period. This annual loss estimate is most likely much lower than the actual losses that occur. However, additional data is not available regarding historical uninsured or unclaimed losses or general reductions in crop and livestock yields. Future Development Future development is not expected to be significantly impacted Reno County s vulnerability to this hazard. Dam and Levee Failure Vulnerability Overview Planning Significance: Moderate. Dam or levee failure is typically an additional or secondary impact of another disaster such as flooding or earthquake. The impacts to the County and its municipalities from a dam failure would be similar in some cases to those associated with flood events (see the flood hazard vulnerability analysis and discussion). The biggest difference is that a catastrophic dam failure has the potential to result in a much greater loss of life and destruction Reno County, Kansas 3.122

123 to property and infrastructure due to the potential speed of onset and greater depth, extent, and velocity of flooding. Another difference is that dam failures could flood areas outside of mapped flood hazards. According to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, Water Structures Program, Reno County has 18 low hazard dams within the County boundaries. Figure 3.x in the Dam Profile Section is a map providing the locations of dams Reno County. Data from the State of Kansas Data Access and Support Center indicates that there are numerous levees in Reno County. Many of these levees are unregulated, uncertified levees such as agricultural levees and other levees on private land. To narrow the focus for mitigation planning purposes, several sources were consulted to determine the levees that provide significant protection to populations in the County; the online FEMA Levee Inventory System, the FEMA list for flood map modernization, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers spreadsheet data source and commentary from the HMPC to determine where levee planning efforts should be focused. From these sources, two levees were determined to provide protection to significant populations and therefore warranted additional discussion in terms of vulnerability. The two levees are: the Hutchinson Levee Figure 3.55 and the Willowbrook Levee Figure Currently, these accredited levees are in the process of having the levees certified by FEMA under the Previously Accredited Levee (PAL) agreement. Reno County, Kansas 3.123

124 Figure 3.55 Levees in Hutchinson and South Hutchinson Reno County, Kansas 3.124

125 Figure 3.56 Levee in Willowbrook Reno County, Kansas 3.125

126 Potential Losses to Existing Development Dams Losses from a dam failure will vary based on the low hazard dam involved, warning time, and time of day, but the potential exists for property and agricultural losses. Impacts to critical facilities would be similar to those identified in the flood vulnerability analysis. Levees At this time, Reno County does not have a digital flood insurance rate map (DFIRM) that might enable a GIS-based loss estimate for levee failure. However, the loss estimates generated from HAZUS in the flood vulnerability section can be considered inclusive of levee failure losses, as HAZUS did not account for levee protection at Hutchinson or other areas of the County. The generalized descriptions of areas protected by the levees provided below are for planning purposes only and are not meant to provide definitive boundaries of the areas protected by the levees. Table 3.39 shows the estimated losses if the levee were to fail at a 100 year flood event. Table 3.40 shows the structures protected by the Hutchinson Levee. The flood depth (ft) on the table represents the depth at the 100 year flood. The levee in Willowbrook protects the whole City. At the 100 year flood level, the whole town would be flooded. Table 3.39 Estimated Losses without Levee Protection by Community Cost Cost Capital Rental Building Contents Inventory Relocation Related Income Wage Total Loss Jurisdiction Damage ($) Damage ($) Loss ($) Loss ($) Loss ($) Loss ($) Loss ($) ($) Hutchinson 153,108, ,693,000 15,367, ,000 1,227, ,000 6,825, ,386,000 South 4,731,000 8,886, ,000 31,000 31,000 9,000 81,000 14,674,000 Hutchinson Willowbrook 330, ,000-1, ,000 Source: HAZUS MH MR3 Table 3.40 Structures protected by the Hutchinson Levee Critical Facility Near City Name Flood Depth (ft) Airport Hutchinson Hutchinson Municipal 2.13 Elderly Facility Hutchinson Hutchinson Good Samaritan Center 2.20 Elderly Facility Hutchinson Infinia at Hutchinson 2.43 Elderly Facility Hutchinson Ray E Dillon Living Center 4.47 Elderly Facility Hutchinson Golden Plains Health Care Center 3.05 Elderly Facility Hutchinson Golden Years Senior Care Home 1.33 Elderly Facility Hutchinson Elm Grove Estates 3.38 Elderly Facility Hutchinson Waldron Place 2.17 EMS Station Hutchinson Hutchinson Hospital Reno County Emergency Medical 2.65 Services Fire Station Hutchinson Hutchinson Fire Department Station Reno County, Kansas 3.126

127 Critical Facility Near City Name Flood Depth (ft) Fire Station Hutchinson Hutchinson Fire Department Station Fire Station Hutchinson Hutchinson Fire Department Station Health Care Hutchinson Hutchinson Clinic ASC 0.90 Health Care Hutchinson Surgery Center of South Central KS 2.15 Health Care Hutchinson Hutchinson Ambulatory Surgery Center LLC 2.22 Health Care Hutchinson Hutchinson Clinic Renal Dialysis Center 2.17 Health Care Hutchinson Hutchinson Dialysis LLC 2.17 Health Care Hutchinson Hutchinson Clinic 0.90 Health Care Hutchinson Prairiestar Health Center Inc 4.40 Health Care Hutchinson Care 2000 Home Healthcare Svcs of Hutchinson Inc 3.61 Health Care Hutchinson Homecare of Hutchinson 2.14 Health Care Hutchinson Reno County Health Dept & HHA 4.71 Health Care Hutchinson Care 2000 Homecare 3.61 Health Care Hutchinson Hutchinson Hospital SNF 2.17 Hospital Hutchinson Hutchinson Hospital Corporation 2.17 School Hutchinson Wiley Elementary 0.01 School Hutchinson Avenue A Elementary 2.85 School Hutchinson Hutchinson Elementary Magnet School at Allen 3.02 School Hutchinson Lincoln Elementary 3.14 Source: HAZUS MH MR3 Future Development Future development in the levee protected areas in Hutchinson, South Hutchinson, and Willowbrook (shaded zone X on the FIRM) or in areas located downstream from dams in floodplains or inundation zones would increase Reno s vulnerability to this hazard. Hutchinson and South Hutchinson both have housing unit increases from 1990 to 2000 according to the Housing Units Table 3.48 in Section If this trend continues and additional structures are built in the levee protected area, additional development would be vulnerable to levee failure. Disease Outbreak Vulnerability Overview Planning Significance: Moderate. The capacity of local health care facilities would likely be exceeded if a disease outbreak were to occur. The more densely populated areas of the County are more susceptible to the diseases that are transmitted person to person such as influenza and pandemic influenza. Stagnant pools of water, which can be found in all parts of the county, are breeding grounds for mosquitoes that may carry West Nile virus. Potential Losses to Existing Development The use of certain community assets such as healthcare facilities could be temporarily impacted by a major disease outbreak, due to the potential need for quarantines or cordoned off areas. Reno County, Kansas 3.127

128 Future Development Future population growth could increase overall vulnerability to major disease outbreaks by increasing the number of potential carriers. Drought Vulnerability Overview Planning Significance: Low. According to the 2007 edition of the Annual Farm Facts Report for Kansas, 732,000 acres in Reno County are used for agricultural purposes, such as pasture for livestock grazing or fields planted with crops. The agricultural economy of Reno County is vulnerable to periods of drought. Drought can also affect the water supply and water quality of communities and water districts in the County. Drought increases the impacts of soil erosion and dust and the risk of wildfire hazards. Earthquake Vulnerability Overview Planning Significance: Low. As discussed under the magnitude section of the profile for this hazard (Section 3.2.5), there is less than a 2 percent probability of an earthquake exceeding a peak acceleration of 4 percent gravity in the next 50 years in Reno County. Typically, significant earthquake damage occurs when accelerations are greater than 30 percent of gravity. The Humboldt Fault Zone, which runs through Riley and Pottawatomie counties and extends to the south along the Nemaha Ridge, is the closest seismic zone to Reno County. However, according to the USGS, Reno County would not experience ranges of shaking where notable damage would be experienced. Expansive Soils Vulnerability Overview Planning Significance: Low. The HMPC has determined that while the entire planning area is vulnerable to some structure damage as a result of shrinking and expanding soils, there is no data available to determine damage estimates for this hazard. In most cases, individual property owners pay for repairs to damages caused by this hazard. The HMPC observed that underground utility lines such as water and sewer pipes may be at risk to damages associated with expansive soils. However, there is no specific data to support damages and costs associated with this hazard at this time. Extreme Heat Vulnerability Overview Planning Significance: Moderate. Health impacts are the primary concern with this hazard, though economic impacts in the agricultural sector are also an issue. The HMPC determined that Reno County, Kansas 3.128

129 the elderly as well as individuals below the poverty level are the most vulnerable to extreme heat. The County has relatively large populations in both of these categories. Nursing homes and elder care facilities are especially vulnerable to extreme heat events if power outages occur and air conditioning is not available. In addition, individuals below the poverty level may be at increased risk to extreme heat if use of air conditioning is not affordable. According to data from the Kansas Center for Community Economic Development (KCCED), in 2000 Reno County ranked thirty-first in the state for populations over age 65 with self care limitation, a group with particular vulnerability in extreme heat events. Table 3.41 shows that all jurisdictions in the planning area have a population over 65 that is well above the national average. Table 3.41 Populations Age 65+ Community Total Population % Age 65 and Over U.S. 281,421, Kansas 2,764, Abbyville Arlington Buhler 1, Haven 1, Hutchinson 40, Langdon Nickerson 1, Partridge Plevna Pretty Prairie South Hutchinson 2, Sylvia Turon Willowbrook County Total* 64, Source: U.S. Census Bureau: 2000 Notes: *County total includes both incorporated and unincorporated areas. **County total poverty data from 2004 Census. The Census Bureau defines the poverty level using a set of money income thresholds that vary by family size and composition Potential Losses to Existing Development Extreme heat normally does not impact structures and it is difficult to identify specific hazard areas. Heavy trucking can increase wear and tear on roadways during periods of extreme heat though the cost of these impacts is difficult to quantify. Stress on livestock and minor to moderate reductions in crop yields are also typical impacts of extended periods of high temperatures. Reno County, Kansas 3.129

130 The power generation and transmission facilities and infrastructure are vulnerable to failure during periods of extreme heat due to an increased use of electricity to power air conditioning. Currently there is no data available that estimates direct potential dollar losses as a result of extreme heat events. Nursing homes and elderly care facilities are especially vulnerable to extreme heat events if power outages occur and air conditioning is not available. There are 11 such facilities in Reno County. The power infrastructure is known to be at risk, but at this time, there is no data available to estimate potential dollar losses as a result of power failure during extreme heat events. According to the USDA s Risk Management Agency, claims paid from as a result of extreme heat in Reno County totaled $686,569. This results in an average annual amount of $171,642. Future Development A growing population increases the number of people vulnerable to extreme heat events; new development increases the strain on the power grid during extreme heat periods. In general, population and development trends in Reno County are declining and unlikely to increase vulnerability to extreme heat in the short term. Flood Vulnerability Vulnerability Overview Planning Significance: High. According to this analysis, the City of Hutchinson and Willowbrook will be hit the hardest by a 100-year flood. However after looking at the current FEMA FIRMs there has been a lot of flood mitigation in these towns to reduce the risk of flooding. According to the FIRMs, Levees have been put in place to channel the majority of flooding away from the populated areas. Due to these Levees being in place the majority of Hutchinson, South Hutchinson and Willowbrook are in the Shaded X Flood Zone or 500-year event. The HAZUS modeling does not take into account the levees and flood bypass channels. Thus the HAZUS flood loss estimation may be more representative of impacts from a 500-year even than the 100-year for these communities. The HAZUS flood loss estimation for the City of Hutchinson, South Hutchinson and Willowbrook is under levee vulnerability. The other cities impacted by the 100 year floodplain are; Arlington, Haven, Nickerson, and Willowbrook each have less than $1,000,000 of total building loss. The towns not affected by the 100 year floodplain are Abbyville, Buhler, Langdon, Partridge, Plevna, Pretty Prairie, Sylvia, and Turon. Identifying Structures and Estimating Potential Losses Estimated Potential Losses to Existing Development The best available flood data for Reno County was generated by HAZUS-MH MR3, FEMA s software program for estimating potential losses from disasters. The 100-year floodplain was Reno County, Kansas 3.130

131 generated for major rivers and creeks with a minimum drainage area of ten square miles in the county. HAZUS-MH produces a flood polygon and flood-depth grid that represents the base flood. While not as accurate as official flood maps, such as digital flood insurance rate maps, these floodplain boundaries are for use in GIS-based loss estimation. Table 3.42 shows the estimated losses by a community due to a 100 year flood event. Figure 3.57 shows the HAZUS estimated building losses from the 100 year flood event for Reno County. Figure 3.58 shows the HAZUS estimated building losses from the 100 year flood event for the Hutchinson area. Methodology HAZUS-MH provides reports on the number of buildings impacted, estimates of the building repair costs, and the associated loss of building contents and business inventory. Building damage can cause additional losses to a community as a whole by restricting the building s ability to function properly. Income loss data accounts for business interruption and rental income losses as well as the resources associated with damage repair and job and housing losses. These losses are calculated by HAZUS-MH using a methodology based on the building damage estimates. Flood damage is directly related to the depth of flooding. For example, a two-foot flood generally results in about 20 percent damage to the structure (which translates to 20 percent of the structure s replacement value). After running the HAZUS analysis, the building inventory loss estimates (which are linked to census block geography) were sorted by fourteen cities in Reno County and the unincorporated county to illustrate how the potential for loss varies across the planning area. Table 3.42 Estimated Flood Losses by Jurisdiction Jurisdiction Cost Building Damage ($) Source: HAZUS-MH MR3 Cost Contents Damage ($) Inventory Loss ($) Relocation Loss ($) Capital Related Loss ($) Rental Income Loss ($) Wage Loss ($) Total Loss ($) Abbyville Arlington 423, ,000-1,000 1, ,000 Buhler Haven 97, ,000 2,000 1, , ,000 Hutchinson 153,108, ,693,000 15,367, ,000 1,227, ,000 6,825, ,386,000 Langdon Nickerson 214, ,000 9,000 2,000 2,000-6, ,000 Partridge Plevna Pretty Prairie South 4,731,000 8,886, ,000 31,000 31,000 9,000 81,000 14,674,000 Hutchinson Sylvia Turon Willowbrook 330, ,000-1, ,000 Unincorporated 18,186,000 27,138,000 4,096,000 60,000 60,000 13, ,000 49,830,000 Reno County Total 177,089, ,561,000 20,379, ,000 1,321, ,000 7,193, ,827,000 Reno County, Kansas 3.131

132 Limitations Default HAZUS-MH data was used to develop the loss estimates. Thus, the potential losses derived from HAZUS-MH, the best available data, may contain some inaccuracies. The building valuations used in HAZUS-MH MR3 are updated to R.S. Means 2006 and commercial data is updated to Dun & Bradstreet There could be errors and inadequacies associated with the hydrologic and hydraulic modeling of the HAZUS-MH model. The damaged building counts generated by HAZUS-MH are susceptible to rounding errors and are likely the weakest output of the model due to the use of census blocks for analysis. Reno County, Kansas 3.132

133 Figure 3.57 HAZUS Estimated Building Losses from 100-Year Flood in Reno County Reno County, Kansas 3.133

134 Figure 3.58 HAZUS Estimated Building Losses from 100-Year Flood in Hutchinson Reno County, Kansas 3.134

135 Figure 3.59 illustrates the number of residents potentially displaced by a 100-year flood event in different areas of Reno County. Figure 3.60 provides a closer look at potentially displaced residents within the City of Hutchinson. Reno County, Kansas 3.135

136 Figure 3.59 HAZUS Estimated Population Displaced by 100-Year Flood in Reno County Reno County, Kansas 3.136

137 Figure 3.60 HAZUS Estimated Population Displaced by 100-Year Flood in Hutchinson Reno County, Kansas 3.137

138 Critical Facilities and Infrastructure in 100-Year Floodplain Critical facilities data from the State of Kansas and HAZUS-MH was used along with the floodplain generated by HAZUS-MH to identify critical facilities and infrastructure located in flood hazard areas. Digital locations of water treatment facilities were not available. Figure 3.61 shows the locations of critical facilities and infrastructure and the HAZUS generated 100-year floodplain in Reno County. Figures 3.62 to 3.69 show individual maps of critical facilities and any flood hazard areas in each of the participating jurisdictions. Figure 3.60 shows the pipeline and power line intersections with the floodplain. Included with HAZUS-MH, is a database of bridges called the National Bridge Inventory developed by the Federal Highway Administration. It includes a scour index used to quantify the vulnerability of a bridge to scour during a flood. Bridges with a scour index between one and three are considered scour critical, or a bridge with a foundation element determined to be unstable for the observed or evaluated scour condition. There are two scour critical bridges in Reno County; one is on the western city boundary of Hutchinson on Nickerson Blvd, and the other is located within the east part of Arlington on State Highway 61. There are 34 critical facilities in Reno County that fall in the HAZUS 100-year floodplain. All of the flooded facilities are within the city limits of Hutchinson except for four wastewater treatments facilities on that are located next to other towns within Reno County. Based on the FIRMs, the 30 critical facilities in the City of Hutchinson are levee protected, so they are susceptible to the 500-year even and not the 100-year. The 30 critical facilities are listed on under levee vulnerability. Table 3.43 Critical Facilities in the 100-Year Floodplain in Reno County Critical Facility Near City Name Flood Depth (ft) Waste Water Facility Buhler Buhler WWTF 7.71 Waste Water Facility Haven Haven City of WWTP 1.74 Waste Water Facility Hutchinson City of Hutchinson Sewage Treatment Plan 3.59 Waste Water Facility Nickerson Nickerson WWTP 2.40 Waste Water Facility Willowbrook Willowbrook City of STP 4.88 Source: (HAZUS-MH) Reno County, Kansas 3.138

139 Figure 3.60 Pipelines and Electric Lines in HAZUS 100-Year Floodplain in Reno County Reno County, Kansas 3.139

140 Figure 3.61 Critical Facilities in the HAZUS 100-Year Floodplain in Reno County Reno County, Kansas 3.140

141 Figure 3.62 Critical Facilities in the HAZUS 100-Year Floodplain in Hutchinson Reno County, Kansas 3.141

142 Figure 3.63 Critical Facilities in the HAZUS 100-Year Floodplain in South Hutchinson Reno County, Kansas 3.142

143 Figure 3.64 Critical Facilities in the HAZUS 100-Year Floodplain in Arlington Reno County, Kansas 3.143

144 Figure 3.65 Critical Facilities in the HAZUS 100-Year Floodplain in Buhler Reno County, Kansas 3.144

145 Figure 3.66 Critical Facilities in the HAZUS 100-Year Floodplain in Haven Reno County, Kansas 3.145

146 Figure 3.67 Critical Facilities in the HAZUS 100-Year Floodplain in Nickerson Reno County, Kansas 3.146

147 Figure 3.68 Critical Facilities in the HAZUS 100-Year Floodplain in Plevna Reno County, Kansas 3.147

148 Figure 3.69 Critical Facilities in the HAZUS 100-Year Floodplain in Willowbrook Reno County, Kansas 3.148