Long Beach Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 458,491 and a calculated risk score of 100.0, Long Beach faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Long Beach, CA. The landscape around Long Beach defines much of daily life. Yet, the geography also exposes the area to certain threats. The risk of earthquakes is higher here than the national average.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Long Beach a Risk Score of 100.000 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Earthquake and Wildfire.
Earthquake risk in Long Beach, California
Long Beach's location near active fault lines makes earthquake preparedness critical for all residents. While seismic retrofitting has improved infrastructure, the potential for a significant magnitude event remains a primary hazard concern for the region.
Long Beach Earthquake Safety
- •Secure heavy furniture and water heaters to wall studs
- •Create a family communication plan for when cell towers fail
- •Keep sturdy shoes and a flashlight tied to your bedframe
Top Hazards for The Long Beach Area
Regional data for California suggests that the area is historically prone to periods of earthquake. Consequently, the data-driven score of 100.0 underscores the need for preparedness. Families should have a reunification plan for when an event occurs during work/school hours.
As population density grows in California, future climate projections suggest an uptick in wildfire severity. However, our modeling, based on FEMA and NOAA datasets, assigns a score of 99.9/100. During peak season, air quality can dissolve quickly, making N95 masks an essential kit item.
In terms of regional hazard exposure in California, the proximity to specific terrain features amplifies the heat wave risk. It is important to note that this value of 98.4 serves as a benchmark for local insurance and safety planning. Keeping trees trimmed near power lines reduces the risk of prolonged outages.
Monitor Active Threats
Long Beach has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Long Beach? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Long Beach
Read the Full Guide →In Long Beach, warning times are minimal. The ground can shift without notice, making immediate physical safety your priority. Your home environment needs to be 'quake-proofed' long before the shaking starts.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Store breakable items in low, latched cabinets.
- 2Secure heavy furniture and appliances to the walls.
- 3Identify safe spots (under sturdy tables) in each room.
- 4Keep a pair of sturdy shoes and a flashlight tied to your bedframe.
- 5Know how to shut off your gas line manually and have the tool nearby.
Essential Gear for Long Beach
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.
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Earthquake now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 100.0 | Choosing between Long Beach and Los Angeles? Long Beach presents a unique set of challenges. |
| San Francisco | 98.3 | When compared to San Francisco, Long Beach is slightly higher risk. The difference of 1.7 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| San Diego | 99.6 | San Diego and Long Beach share similar regional risks, but our data gives San Diego the edge in overall safety. |
| Riverside | 99.9 | Riverside and Long Beach share similar regional risks, but our data gives Riverside the edge in overall safety. |
| Sacramento | 96.3 | When compared to Sacramento, Long Beach is slightly higher risk. The difference of 3.7 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Earthquakes in Long Beach?
With a risk score of 100.0 for Earthquake, Long Beach is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Earthquake events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Long Beach safer than other cities in California?
It varies by hazard. While Long Beach has its own risk profile (Total Score: 100.0), it is among the higher-risk areas in California. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Long Beach given the risk of Wildfire?
Every city has risks. The threat of Wildfire (Score: 99.9) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Long Beach is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Long Beach compare to other cities in California?
See the full California Disaster Rankings to see how Long Beach stacks up against other cities in the state.