Jersey City Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 289,691 and a calculated risk score of 93.2, Jersey City faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Jersey City, NJ. Jersey City is a city with a rich history and bright future. But smart residents know to keep an eye on the forecast. We found that coastal flooding rank among the highest local hazards.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Jersey City sits at a Risk Score of 93.179. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Coastal Flooding and Heat Wave.
Flood risk in Jersey City, New Jersey
Topography and rainfall patterns contribute to flood risks in parts of Jersey City. Even areas outside high-risk zones can experience flash flooding during intense precipitation events.
Jersey City Flood Protection
- •Elevate utilities and valuable items above ground level
- •Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris
- •Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters ('Turn Around Don't Drown')
Top Hazards for The Jersey City Area
Historically, the climate of New Jersey dictates that historical precedents show that coastal flooding are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 99.2. Residents in low-lying zones should have evacuation routes mapped out well in advance.
Regional data for New Jersey suggests that the area is historically prone to periods of heat wave. Consequently, the data-driven score of 97.4 underscores the need for preparedness. Local schools and businesses typically have robust protocols for these weather events.
As population density grows in New Jersey, future climate projections suggest an uptick in landslide severity. However, our modeling, based on FEMA and NOAA datasets, assigns a score of 94.1/100. Unlike weather events, a landslide offers no warning, demanding 24/7 readiness.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Jersey City? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Jersey City
Read the Full Guide →For Jersey City, 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
- 1Prepare for secondary heat waves if power is lost.
- 2Elevate critical documents and electronics off the floor.
- 3Have a 'Go-Bag' ready in case evacuation orders are issued.
- 4Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 7 days.
- 5Identify your evacuation zone and map out two different routes.
Essential Gear for Jersey City
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.
The best insurance against Coastal Flooding is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Trenton | 89.4 | Trenton and Jersey City share similar regional risks, but our data gives Trenton the edge in overall safety. |
| Newark | 89.3 | Choosing between Jersey City and Newark? Jersey City presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Paterson | 84.4 | When compared to Paterson, Jersey City is slightly higher risk. The difference of 8.8 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Elizabeth | 88.7 | Choosing between Jersey City and Elizabeth? Jersey City presents a unique set of challenges. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Coastal Floodings in Jersey City?
With a risk score of 99.2 for Coastal Flooding, Jersey City is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Coastal Flooding events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Jersey City safer than other cities in New Jersey?
It varies by hazard. While Jersey City has its own risk profile (Total Score: 93.2), it is among the higher-risk areas in New Jersey. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Jersey City given the risk of Heat Wave?
Every city has risks. The threat of Heat Wave (Score: 97.4) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Jersey City is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Jersey City compare to other cities in New Jersey?
See the full New Jersey Disaster Rankings to see how Jersey City stacks up against other cities in the state.