Hagerstown Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 206,889 and a calculated risk score of 57.1, Hagerstown faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Hagerstown, MD. Calling Hagerstown home means understanding its environment. While often overlooked, the local hazard data is clear. The numbers show a clear susceptibility to heat waves.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 57.052, Hagerstown requires specific preparation. The data highlights Heat Wave as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Top Hazards for The Hagerstown Area
For residents of Maryland, it is well known that local patterns show a recurring trend of heat wave activity. Moreover statistical analysis places this risk level at 89.3/100, requiring attention. For new residents, understanding the severity of heat waves in their specific zip code is vital.
Comparisons of local data to the rest of Maryland reveal, Hagerstown faces a critical challenge with landslide events. In light of this, with a calculated Risk Score of 88.5, this hazard ranks among the top concerns. Structural retrofitting for older homes can significantly mitigate the danger of landslides.
In the broader context of Maryland's climate, hurricanes represent a significant vector of concern for Hagerstown. Furthermore, recent climate normals and historical event data contribute to this elevated score of 82.6. Protecting property involves elevating critical utilities above potential water lines.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Hagerstown? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Hagerstown
Read the Full Guide →Extreme heat is a silent killer in Hagerstown. It stresses the power grid and the human body. Your survival strategy should revolve around hydration, cooling, and backup power.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Know the location of your nearest cooling center.
- 2Have a backup power source for fans or medical devices.
- 3Cover windows with reflective material to keep heat out.
- 4Monitor local weather for 'Wet Bulb' temperature warnings.
- 5Store electrolyte powder in your kit, not just plain water.
Essential Gear for Hagerstown
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Jackery Explorer 300
Keep phones and laptops charged during multi-day outages.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
Do not wait for a Heat Wave 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, Hagerstown is statistically safer. The difference of 33.6 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Frederick | 69.8 | When compared to Frederick, Hagerstown is statistically safer. The difference of 12.8 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Waldorf | 60.0 | Choosing between Hagerstown and Waldorf? Hagerstown presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Columbia | 71.1 | Columbia and Hagerstown share similar regional risks, but our data gives Hagerstown the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Heat Waves in Hagerstown?
With a risk score of 89.3 for Heat Wave, Hagerstown is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Heat Wave events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Hagerstown safer than other cities in Maryland?
It varies by hazard. While Hagerstown has its own risk profile (Total Score: 57.1), it is generally comparable to the average in Maryland. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Hagerstown given the risk of Landslide?
Every city has risks. The threat of Landslide (Score: 88.5) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Hagerstown is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Hagerstown compare to other cities in Maryland?
See the full Maryland Disaster Rankings to see how Hagerstown stacks up against other cities in the state.