New Bedford Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 152,104 and a calculated risk score of 82.8, New Bedford faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for New Bedford, MA. For residents of New Bedford, life moves at its own pace. Unfortunately, nature can be unpredictable in this region. You should be particularly prepared for hurricanes events.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns New Bedford a Risk Score of 82.841 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Hurricane and Landslide.
Hurricane risk in New Bedford, Massachusetts
Being situated in a region vulnerable to tropical cyclones, New Bedford faces threats from high winds and storm surge. Historical data shows significant impacts from major storms, requiring robust flood insurance and evacuation planning.
New Bedford Hurricane Prep Checklist
- •Know your specific evacuation zone and local routes
- •Install storm shutters or measure/cut plywood in advance
- •Stock at least 7 days of water and non-perishable food
Top Hazards for The New Bedford Area
Long-standing weather records for Massachusetts indicate citizens here are statistically more likely to encounter hurricanes. Crucially, an analytical review of past disasters puts the current risk tier at 94.5. Heavy rainfall events can quickly overwhelm local drainage, making situational awareness key.
Environmental studies focusing on Massachusetts highlight that the area's infrastructure faces consistent tests from landslide events. Additionally, federal hazard layers combined with local topography result in this 90.8 score. Emergency kits must include shoes and gloves to navigate debris after an event.
Regional data for Massachusetts suggests that the area is historically prone to periods of ice storm. Consequently, the data-driven score of 86.7 underscores the need for preparedness. Local schools and businesses typically have robust protocols for these weather events.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
New Bedford has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in New Bedford? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in New Bedford
Read the Full Guide →For New Bedford, 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
- 1Elevate critical documents and electronics off the floor.
- 2Have a 'Go-Bag' ready in case evacuation orders are issued.
- 3Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 7 days.
- 4Identify your evacuation zone and map out two different routes.
- 5Install storm shutters or have pre-cut plywood ready for windows.
Essential Gear for New Bedford
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 Hurricane now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Boston | 87.9 | Boston and New Bedford share similar regional risks, but our data gives New Bedford the edge in overall safety. |
| Worcester | 88.5 | Worcester and New Bedford share similar regional risks, but our data gives New Bedford the edge in overall safety. |
| Springfield | 74.0 | Choosing between New Bedford and Springfield? New Bedford presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Cambridge | 93.8 | Cambridge and New Bedford share similar regional risks, but our data gives New Bedford the edge in overall safety. |
| Lowell | 93.8 | Lowell and New Bedford share similar regional risks, but our data gives New Bedford the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Hurricanes in New Bedford?
With a risk score of 94.5 for Hurricane, New Bedford is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Hurricane events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is New Bedford safer than other cities in Massachusetts?
It varies by hazard. While New Bedford has its own risk profile (Total Score: 82.8), it is generally comparable to the average in Massachusetts. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to New Bedford given the risk of Landslide?
Every city has risks. The threat of Landslide (Score: 90.8) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in New Bedford is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does New Bedford compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
See the full Massachusetts Disaster Rankings to see how New Bedford stacks up against other cities in the state.