Fredericksburg Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 166,746 and a calculated risk score of 13.7, Fredericksburg faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Fredericksburg, VA. Living in Fredericksburg offers a unique lifestyle. But like any location, it has unique set of risks. The most significant threat to be aware of is lightning.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Fredericksburg sits at a Risk Score of 13.711. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Lightning and Hurricane.
Top Hazards for The Fredericksburg Area
Regional data for Virginia suggests that the area is historically prone to periods of lightning. Consequently, the data-driven score of 72.4 underscores the need for preparedness. Local schools and businesses typically have robust protocols for these weather events.
Looking at the long-term climate history of Virginia, resilience against hurricanes is a key aspect of local safety. Therefore, we calculate a specific index of 67.9, indicating a substantial threat level. Sandbagging locations and shelter routes should be identified before the season starts.
In terms of regional hazard exposure in Virginia, the proximity to specific terrain features amplifies the landslide risk. It is important to note that this value of 58.9 serves as a benchmark for local insurance and safety planning. The lack of warning time means your immediate environment must be safe by default.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Fredericksburg? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Fredericksburg
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Fredericksburg. 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 Fredericksburg
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 Lightning 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, Fredericksburg is statistically safer. The difference of 67.1 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Richmond | 59.3 | When compared to Richmond, Fredericksburg is statistically safer. The difference of 45.6 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Chesapeake | 84.4 | Chesapeake and Fredericksburg share similar regional risks, but our data gives Fredericksburg the edge in overall safety. |
| Arlington | 60.7 | Choosing between Fredericksburg and Arlington? Fredericksburg presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Norfolk | 85.5 | Norfolk and Fredericksburg share similar regional risks, but our data gives Fredericksburg the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Lightnings in Fredericksburg?
With a risk score of 72.4 for Lightning, Fredericksburg is considered moderately exposed. Residents should have a specific plan for Lightning events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Fredericksburg safer than other cities in Virginia?
It varies by hazard. While Fredericksburg has its own risk profile (Total Score: 13.7), it is generally comparable to the average in Virginia. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Fredericksburg given the risk of Hurricane?
Every city has risks. The threat of Hurricane (Score: 67.9) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Fredericksburg is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Fredericksburg compare to other cities in Virginia?
See the full Virginia Disaster Rankings to see how Fredericksburg stacks up against other cities in the state.