Kailua Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 115,634 and a calculated risk score of 91.8, Kailua faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Kailua, HI. Kailua is a city with a rich history and bright future. But smart residents know to keep an eye on the forecast. We found that tsunamis rank among the highest local hazards.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 91.844, Kailua requires specific preparation. The data highlights Tsunami as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Top Hazards for The Kailua Area
Given the environmental patterns common in Hawaii, the potential for tsunamis in Kailua stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 100.0 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. For those near water, having a 'go-bag' ready for rapid evacuation is non-negotiable.
Observing the seasonal cycles typical of Hawaii, wildfires constitute a major variable in the local quality of life equations. Moreover weighted against regional averages, this score of 99.0 is statistically significant. Home hardening (fire-resistant roofing and siding) significantly improves survival odds.
Historically, the climate of Hawaii dictates that historical precedents show that earthquakes are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 97.6. Securing heavy furniture and knowing how to shut off gas lines are top priorities here.
Monitor Active Threats
Kailua has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.

The Apartment Fortress
Living in Kailua? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Kailua
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Kailua. 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 Kailua

Water
Scepter 5 Gallon Water Container
Bombproof water storage. 5 gallons is the minimum for one person for 5 days.

Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.

Tools
Leatherman Wave+ Multi-Tool
18 tools in one. Essential for turning off gas valves or making repairs.
Do not wait for a Tsunami warning to start packing. Secure your essential gear today.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Honolulu | 91.8 | Honolulu and Kailua share similar regional risks, but our data gives Honolulu the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Tsunamis in Kailua?
With a risk score of 100.0 for Tsunami, Kailua is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Tsunami events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Kailua safer than other cities in Hawaii?
It varies by hazard. While Kailua has its own risk profile (Total Score: 91.8), it is among the higher-risk areas in Hawaii. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Kailua given the risk of Wildfire?
Every city has risks. The threat of Wildfire (Score: 99.0) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Kailua is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Kailua compare to other cities in Hawaii?
See the full Hawaii Disaster Rankings to see how Kailua stacks up against other cities in the state.