History of Natural and Man-Made Disaster within the Region
Aircraft Accidents
There have only been one major aircraft accidents within the area involving ground
casualties. The area’s deadliest disaster was a plane crash that occurred in 1971,
killing 23 people in the air and on the ground. A crash could cause fatalities, fires,
power outages and other disruptions.
Earthquakes
Earthquakes in the region are very rare. The last earthquake was a 3.6 on the
Richter Scale which occurred in 1989 with an epicenter located 175 miles to the
north of Riverton.
Flooding
Flooding in the area occurred in 1972, 1988 and 2003. Each of the flooding events
was due to heavy rainfall in the area which caused streams, rivers and lakes to rise
well above their normal levels. The 2003 flood caused damage to 437 homes
throughout the area.
Hazardous Material Incidents
A Hazardous Materials incident is generally described as the intentional or
accidental release of toxic, combustible, illegal or dangerous nuclear, biological or
chemical agents into the environment. Most incidents happen at fixed sites, but
incidents involving transported hazardous materials are often more dangerous, since
they occur in less controlled environments. Other than hazardous materials that may
be stored on farms there are very few hazardous materials storage sites located in
the area.
Snowstorms
Once every four or five years a major storm paralyzes the area. The immobility
causes economic damage and inconveniences for many. The snow can also cut
power and phone lines, topple trees and even collapse roofs. The area has snow
removal equipment, but it must be placed on vehicles that are normally used for
other purposes.
Terrorism
Riverton is located in a very rural area with little threat of terrorism.
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Tornadoes
One tornado touched down in the area in 1979 and another struck nearby in 1969.
The tornado killed six people.
Wildfires
The region is made-up primarily of woodland areas or farms. Between August and
October the region normally experiences its dry season and the threat of wildfires
increase. On average there are between 20 and 30 wildfires on an annual bases
with most being contained to less that 20 acres.
Windstorms
Sustained winds of 85 mph have been recorded in the area. Normally, the hilly
terrain breaks up strong winds, but there are occasional strong storms that halt
normal activity throughout the area. They cause widespread power line damage and
power outages due to toppled trees and broken limbs. The area has programs for
vegetation management that serve to mitigate damage to electrical systems during
windstorms.
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