Arlington Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 235,463 and a calculated risk score of 60.7, Arlington faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Arlington, VA. Calling Arlington home means understanding its environment. While often overlooked, the local hazard data is clear. The numbers show a clear susceptibility to hurricanes.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Arlington sits at a Risk Score of 60.728. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Hurricane and Landslide.
Hurricane risk in Arlington, Virginia
Being situated in a region vulnerable to tropical cyclones, Arlington faces threats from high winds and storm surge. Historical data shows significant impacts from major storms, requiring robust flood insurance and evacuation planning.
Arlington Hurricane Prep Checklist
- •Know your specific evacuation zone and local routes
- •Install storm shutters or measure/cut plywood in advance
- •Stock at least 7 days of water and non-perishable food
Top Hazards for The Arlington Area
Across the diverse landscape of Virginia, hurricane preparedness is ingrained in the local community culture. Furthermore, the generated risk index of 87.3 is derived from granular local inputs. Protecting property involves elevating critical utilities above potential water lines.
Historically, the climate of Virginia dictates that historical precedents show that landslides are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 80.2. Securing heavy furniture and knowing how to shut off gas lines are top priorities here.
Across the diverse landscape of Virginia, heat wave preparedness is ingrained in the local community culture. Furthermore, the generated risk index of 76.3 is derived from granular local inputs. Insulation and sealing drafts can be a lifesaver when a heat wave strains the power grid.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Arlington? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Arlington
Read the Full Guide →For Arlington, water protection is key. The combination of high winds and potential storm surge requires a multi-layered approach. You need to be ready to shelter in place for 72 hours or evacuate at a moment's notice.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Elevate critical documents and electronics off the floor.
- 2Have a 'Go-Bag' ready in case evacuation orders are issued.
- 3Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 7 days.
- 4Identify your evacuation zone and map out two different routes.
- 5Install storm shutters or have pre-cut plywood ready for windows.
Essential Gear for Arlington
Water
Scepter 2.5 Gallon Water Container
Lighter and easier to carry than the 5-gallon version.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
The best insurance against Hurricane is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach | 80.8 | When compared to Virginia Beach, Arlington is statistically safer. The difference of 20.1 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Richmond | 59.3 | When compared to Richmond, Arlington is slightly higher risk. The difference of 1.4 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Chesapeake | 84.4 | Chesapeake and Arlington share similar regional risks, but our data gives Arlington the edge in overall safety. |
| Norfolk | 85.5 | Norfolk and Arlington share similar regional risks, but our data gives Arlington the edge in overall safety. |
| Roanoke | 34.0 | Roanoke and Arlington share similar regional risks, but our data gives Roanoke the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Hurricanes in Arlington?
With a risk score of 87.3 for Hurricane, Arlington is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Hurricane events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Arlington safer than other cities in Virginia?
It varies by hazard. While Arlington has its own risk profile (Total Score: 60.7), it is generally comparable to the average in Virginia. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Arlington given the risk of Landslide?
Every city has risks. The threat of Landslide (Score: 80.2) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Arlington is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Arlington compare to other cities in Virginia?
See the full Virginia Disaster Rankings to see how Arlington stacks up against other cities in the state.