Newport News Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 184,774 and a calculated risk score of 83.3, Newport News faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Newport News, VA. The community in Newport News is tight-knit and spirited. But being prepared means knowing what could go wrong. Historical data suggests a pattern of hurricane activity.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 83.335, Newport News requires specific preparation. The data highlights Hurricane as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Hurricane risk in Newport News, Virginia
Being situated in a region vulnerable to tropical cyclones, Newport News faces threats from high winds and storm surge. Historical data shows significant impacts from major storms, requiring robust flood insurance and evacuation planning.
Newport News 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 Newport News Area
Historically, the climate of Virginia dictates that historical precedents show that hurricanes are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 94.1. Residents in low-lying zones should have evacuation routes mapped out well in advance.
Meteorological data for Virginia confirms that local planning increasingly focuses on mitigating coastal flooding. In light of this, based on multi-decade trend analysis, we assign an exposure rating of 90.9. Understanding the difference between a coastal flooding watch and warning can be a lifesaver.
Historically, the climate of Virginia dictates that historical precedents show that heat waves are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 86.3. A NOAA weather radio with battery backup is the most reliable way to receive alerts.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Newport News? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Newport News
Read the Full Guide →For Newport News, 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
- 1Avoid low-lying areas during heavy rain events.
- 2Elevate critical documents and electronics off the floor.
- 3Have a 'Go-Bag' ready in case evacuation orders are issued.
- 4Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 7 days.
- 5Identify your evacuation zone and map out two different routes.
Essential Gear for Newport News
Water
Scepter 5 Gallon Water Container
Bombproof water storage. 5 gallons is the minimum for one person for 5 days.
Power
Jackery Explorer 300
Keep phones and laptops charged during multi-day outages.
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Do not wait for a Hurricane warning to start packing. Secure your essential gear today.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach | 80.8 | Virginia Beach and Newport News share similar regional risks, but our data gives Virginia Beach the edge in overall safety. |
| Richmond | 59.3 | Richmond and Newport News share similar regional risks, but our data gives Richmond the edge in overall safety. |
| Chesapeake | 84.4 | Choosing between Newport News and Chesapeake? Newport News presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Arlington | 60.7 | When compared to Arlington, Newport News is slightly higher risk. The difference of 22.6 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Norfolk | 85.5 | Choosing between Newport News and Norfolk? Newport News presents a lower overall risk profile. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Hurricanes in Newport News?
With a risk score of 94.1 for Hurricane, Newport News 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 Newport News safer than other cities in Virginia?
It varies by hazard. While Newport News has its own risk profile (Total Score: 83.3), it is generally comparable to the average in Virginia. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Newport News given the risk of Coastal Flooding?
Every city has risks. The threat of Coastal Flooding (Score: 90.9) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Newport News is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Newport News compare to other cities in Virginia?
See the full Virginia Disaster Rankings to see how Newport News stacks up against other cities in the state.