Fayetteville Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 405,556 and a calculated risk score of 87.7, Fayetteville faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Fayetteville, AR. Living in Fayetteville offers a unique lifestyle. But like any location, it has unique set of risks. The most significant threat to be aware of is winter weather.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Fayetteville a Risk Score of 87.744 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Winter Weather and Ice Storm.
Winter storm risk in Fayetteville, Arkansas
Severe winter weather and ice storms pose a unique threat to Fayetteville, potentially causing extended power outages and hazardous road conditions. Infrastructure in the area may be vulnerable to heavy ice accumulation.
Fayetteville Winter Grid Failure Prep
- •Have a safe, indoor-rated backup heat source
- •Insulate pipes and know how to shut off main water valve
- •Keep a backup battery bank for charging phones
Top Hazards for The Fayetteville Area
As part of the wider Arkansas region, the threat of winter weather should not be underestimated. However, this quantitative assessment yields a precise risk factor of 99.8. Power outages often accompany these events, making backup power (like batteries) essential.
Considering the historical weather trends in Arkansas, data indicates that Fayetteville has a higher-than-average exposure to ice storms. It is important to note that this metric (score: 99.7) aligns with federal disaster declarations for the county. Keeping trees trimmed near power lines reduces the risk of prolonged outages.
Given the environmental patterns common in Arkansas, the potential for wildfires in Fayetteville stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 97.0 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. Landscaping choices play a huge role in determining a property's resilience to wildfire.
Monitor Active Threats
Fayetteville has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Fayetteville has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.

The Apartment Fortress
Living in Fayetteville? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Fayetteville
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Fayetteville. While specific risks vary, the fundamentals of survival—water, food, and information—remain the same.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Keep a physical map of the local area in case GPS fails.
- 2Maintain a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water.
- 3Have a first aid kit and a supply of prescription medications.
- 4Keep a battery-powered radio to stay informed during power outages.
- 5Establish a family communication plan for when cell towers are down.
Essential Gear for Fayetteville

Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.

Home
Gorilla Tape (Black)
Heavy-duty tape for emergency repairs, sealing windows, or medical improvisation.

Pets
PetBonus Collapsible Dog Bowls
Collapsible bowls for easy packing. Hydration is critical for pets during stress.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Winter Weather now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Little Rock | 93.1 | Choosing between Fayetteville and Little Rock? Fayetteville presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Fort Smith | 78.4 | When compared to Fort Smith, Fayetteville is slightly higher risk. The difference of 9.3 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Winter Weathers in Fayetteville?
With a risk score of 99.8 for Winter Weather, Fayetteville is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Winter Weather events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Fayetteville safer than other cities in Arkansas?
It varies by hazard. While Fayetteville has its own risk profile (Total Score: 87.7), it is generally comparable to the average in Arkansas. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Fayetteville given the risk of Ice Storm?
Every city has risks. The threat of Ice Storm (Score: 99.7) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Fayetteville is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Fayetteville compare to other cities in Arkansas?
See the full Arkansas Disaster Rankings to see how Fayetteville stacks up against other cities in the state.