Manhattan Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 1,694,263 and a calculated risk score of 94.2, Manhattan faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Manhattan, NY. For residents of Manhattan, life moves at its own pace. Unfortunately, nature can be unpredictable in this region. You should be particularly prepared for heat waves events.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Manhattan a Risk Score of 94.225 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Heat Wave and Hurricane.
Top Hazards for The Manhattan Area
As part of the wider New York region, the threat of heat waves should not be underestimated. However, this quantitative assessment yields a precise risk factor of 99.1. Power outages often accompany these events, making backup power (like batteries) essential.
As part of the wider New York region, the threat of hurricanes should not be underestimated. However, this quantitative assessment yields a precise risk factor of 96.7. Flood insurance is highly recommended, even for those technically outside the 100-year floodplain.
As part of the wider New York region, the threat of coastal flooding should not be underestimated. However, this quantitative assessment yields a precise risk factor of 96.4. Flood insurance is highly recommended, even for those technically outside the 100-year floodplain.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Manhattan? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Manhattan
Read the Full Guide →Extreme heat is a silent killer in Manhattan. 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 Manhattan
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
Power
Jackery Explorer 300
Keep phones and laptops charged during multi-day outages.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Heat Wave now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| New York | 96.2 | Choosing between Manhattan and New York? Manhattan presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Brooklyn | 97.2 | Choosing between Manhattan and Brooklyn? Manhattan presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Queens | 96.2 | Queens and Manhattan share similar regional risks, but our data gives Manhattan the edge in overall safety. |
| Bronx | 94.5 | Choosing between Manhattan and Bronx? Manhattan presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Buffalo | 79.7 | When compared to Buffalo, Manhattan is slightly higher risk. The difference of 14.5 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Heat Waves in Manhattan?
With a risk score of 99.1 for Heat Wave, Manhattan 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 Manhattan safer than other cities in New York?
It varies by hazard. While Manhattan has its own risk profile (Total Score: 94.2), it is among the higher-risk areas in New York. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Manhattan given the risk of Hurricane?
Every city has risks. The threat of Hurricane (Score: 96.7) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Manhattan is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Manhattan compare to other cities in New York?
See the full New York Disaster Rankings to see how Manhattan stacks up against other cities in the state.