Los Angeles Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 11,885,717 and a calculated risk score of 100.0, Los Angeles faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Los Angeles, CA. Los Angeles is a city with a rich history and bright future. But smart residents know to keep an eye on the forecast. We found that earthquakes rank among the highest local hazards.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles'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.
Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles Area
Within the specific ecosystem of California, earthquake frequency is a defining characteristic of the local hazard profile. As a result, historical probability models result in a localized score of 100.0/100. Securing heavy furniture and knowing how to shut off gas lines are top priorities here.
For residents of California, it is well known that local patterns show a recurring trend of wildfire activity. Moreover statistical analysis places this risk level at 99.9/100, requiring attention. Home hardening (fire-resistant roofing and siding) significantly improves survival odds.
Comparisons of local data to the rest of California reveal, Los Angeles faces a critical challenge with heat wave events. In light of this, with a calculated Risk Score of 98.4, this hazard ranks among the top concerns. Identifying a safe, windowless interior room is part of basic move-in preparation here.
Monitor Active Threats
Los Angeles has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Los Angeles? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Los Angeles
Read the Full Guide →In Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles
Water
COOZMENT 3.2 Gallon Container with Spigot
A solid middle-ground option with a built-in spigot. Good for camping or countertop use.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| San Francisco | 98.3 | When compared to San Francisco, Los Angeles is slightly higher risk. The difference of 1.7 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| San Diego | 99.6 | San Diego and Los Angeles share similar regional risks, but our data gives San Diego the edge in overall safety. |
| Riverside | 99.9 | Riverside and Los Angeles share similar regional risks, but our data gives Riverside the edge in overall safety. |
| Sacramento | 96.3 | When compared to Sacramento, Los Angeles is slightly higher risk. The difference of 3.7 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| San Jose | 99.8 | Choosing between Los Angeles and San Jose? Los Angeles presents a unique set of challenges. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Earthquakes in Los Angeles?
With a risk score of 100.0 for Earthquake, Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles safer than other cities in California?
It varies by hazard. While Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Los Angeles compare to other cities in California?
See the full California Disaster Rankings to see how Los Angeles stacks up against other cities in the state.