Frederick Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 196,743 and a calculated risk score of 69.8, Frederick faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Frederick, MD. The landscape around Frederick defines much of daily life. Yet, the geography also exposes the area to certain threats. The risk of lightning is higher here than the national average.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 69.813, Frederick requires specific preparation. The data highlights Lightning as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Top Hazards for The Frederick Area
Looking at the long-term climate history of Maryland, resilience against lightning is a key aspect of local safety. Therefore, we calculate a specific index of 93.4, indicating a substantial threat level. Staying off the roads during a severe lightning event is the safest choice.
In terms of regional hazard exposure in Maryland, the proximity to specific terrain features amplifies the heat wave risk. It is important to note that this value of 93.4 serves as a benchmark for local insurance and safety planning. Keeping trees trimmed near power lines reduces the risk of prolonged outages.
Comparisons of local data to the rest of Maryland reveal, Frederick faces a critical challenge with winter weather events. In light of this, with a calculated Risk Score of 90.7, this hazard ranks among the top concerns. Identifying a safe, windowless interior room is part of basic move-in preparation here.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Frederick has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Frederick? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Frederick
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Frederick. While specific risks vary, the fundamentals of survival—water, food, and information—remain the same.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Prepare for secondary heat waves if power is lost.
- 2Keep a physical map of the local area in case GPS fails.
- 3Maintain a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water.
- 4Have a first aid kit and a supply of prescription medications.
- 5Keep a battery-powered radio to stay informed during power outages.
Essential Gear for Frederick
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.
Do not wait for a Lightning warning to start packing. Secure your essential gear today.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Baltimore | 90.7 | When compared to Baltimore, Frederick is statistically safer. The difference of 20.9 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Hagerstown | 57.1 | Choosing between Frederick and Hagerstown? Frederick presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Waldorf | 60.0 | Choosing between Frederick and Waldorf? Frederick presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Columbia | 71.1 | Columbia and Frederick share similar regional risks, but our data gives Frederick the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Lightnings in Frederick?
With a risk score of 93.4 for Lightning, Frederick is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Lightning events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Frederick safer than other cities in Maryland?
It varies by hazard. While Frederick has its own risk profile (Total Score: 69.8), it is generally comparable to the average in Maryland. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Frederick given the risk of Heat Wave?
Every city has risks. The threat of Heat Wave (Score: 93.4) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Frederick is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Frederick compare to other cities in Maryland?
See the full Maryland Disaster Rankings to see how Frederick stacks up against other cities in the state.