When you think about Kansas, you may see sunflowers, vast wheat fields, wide plains, and rustic charm. Although Kansas may appear to be perfectly safe owing to its rural ambiance, many areas of the state are dangerous to visit. According to U.S. News, Kansas ranks 34th in public safety.
The crime rate, unpredictable weather, and unsafe driving conditions are all factors that contribute to a location’s ranking. Whether you reside in Kansas or are planning a trip there, you may be wondering where the state’s most dangerous locations are so you can avoid them. Let’s look at 11 of Kansas’ most hazardous areas and talk about the variables that contribute to the area’s low level of safety.
1. Independence
Independence, Kansas has one of the state’s highest crime rates. Individuals who live in or visit this region should be cautious at all times. Avoid dangerous behaviors like traveling alone or leaving personal items unsecured. According to Crime Grade, “Independence is in the 14th percentile for safety,” indicating that 86% of cities are safer and 14% are more dangerous. Independence has a violent crime rate of 6.206 per 1,000 people in a typical year.
2. Lansing
Kansas is located in “Tornado Alley,” a tiny area with a higher risk of tornadoes than the rest of the United States. Many of you may recall the iconic tornado sequence from The Wizard of Oz, which took place in Kansas. Although the entire state is exposed to tornadoes, Lansing residents face the greatest danger. The state average tornado index is 252.53, whereas Lansing has a whopping 415.33.
3. Topeka
You may believe that Topeka, as the state capital, cannot be a hazardous location to reside. However, the crime rate in this city is roughly double the state average. Low educational attainment and restricted career possibilities all lead to an increase in larceny and burglary.
4. Parsons
Parsons’ crime rate has risen dramatically over the years, and it now ranks higher than 95% of other American communities. Unlike similar localities in Kansas, the most common sort of crime committed here is violent crime rather than property-related crime.
Beginning in 2016, the violent crime rate continued to rise, and in certain years it exceeded the United States average. Individuals visiting Parsons should be mindful of their surroundings at all times and use caution if traveling alone.
5. Newton
Newton is one of Kansas’ most unsafe locations to live. In reality, the number of violent and property-related crimes increases year after year. According to Crime Grade, “The crime rate in Newton is 38.30 per 1,000 residents during a typical year.” Newton residents often believe the south half of the city to be the safest. In Newton’s major areas, your chances of being a victim of crime might be as high as one in every 18.
6. Neodesha
Gun-related crimes have risen in recent years, and Kansas is no exception. Kansas has less stringent gun control legislation than other states. In recent years, many people have called for this to be changed. According to the Educational Fund to Stop Gun Violence, Kansas has the 22nd highest rate of gun-related deaths in the country. Wilson County, in particular, has the state’s highest prevalence of these instances.
7. Wichita
Wichita, Kansas is an extremely well-known city. However, it is becoming more well-known for its high crime rate than for its favorable aspects. The challenging employment market and surge in drug addiction have undoubtedly led to an increase in crime rates. In addition, the roads here may be dangerous, thus all inhabitants are advised to drive defensively.
Summary
To summarize, despite its rustic attractiveness, Kansas confronts public safety issues, ranking 34th according to U.S. News. Several localities, including Independence, Lansing, Topeka, Parsons, Newton, Neodesha, and Wichita, have been classified as particularly dangerous owing to high crime rates, tornado dangers, and poor driving conditions, underlining the importance of care and awareness in these areas.