Palm Bay Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 547,659 and a calculated risk score of 99.0, Palm Bay faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Palm Bay, FL. For residents of Palm Bay, 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
The numbers don't lie. Palm Bay sits at a Risk Score of 98.950. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Hurricane and Lightning.
Hurricane risk in Palm Bay, Florida
Being situated in a region vulnerable to tropical cyclones, Palm Bay faces threats from high winds and storm surge. Historical data shows significant impacts from major storms, requiring robust flood insurance and evacuation planning.
Palm Bay 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 Palm Bay Area
Looking at the long-term climate history of Florida, resilience against hurricanes is a key aspect of local safety. Therefore, we calculate a specific index of 99.7, indicating a substantial threat level. Sandbagging locations and shelter routes should be identified before the season starts.
Regional data for Florida suggests that the area is historically prone to periods of lightning. Consequently, the data-driven score of 99.4 underscores the need for preparedness. Local schools and businesses typically have robust protocols for these weather events.
Meteorological data for Florida confirms that local planning increasingly focuses on mitigating wildfires. In light of this, based on multi-decade trend analysis, we assign an exposure rating of 98.9. Ember intrusion is a major threat; ensuring vents are screened is a critical home upgrade.
Monitor Active Threats
Palm Bay has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Palm Bay? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Palm Bay
Read the Full Guide →For Palm Bay, 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 Palm Bay
Water
Scepter 2.5 Gallon Water Container
Lighter and easier to carry than the 5-gallon version.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
The best insurance against Hurricane is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Miami | 99.7 | When compared to Miami, Palm Bay is statistically safer. The difference of 0.8 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Tampa | 99.3 | When compared to Tampa, Palm Bay is statistically safer. The difference of 0.4 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Orlando | 97.8 | Orlando and Palm Bay share similar regional risks, but our data gives Orlando the edge in overall safety. |
| Jacksonville | 96.7 | Choosing between Palm Bay and Jacksonville? Palm Bay presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Cape Coral | 99.2 | Cape Coral and Palm Bay share similar regional risks, but our data gives Palm Bay the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Hurricanes in Palm Bay?
With a risk score of 99.7 for Hurricane, Palm Bay 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 Palm Bay safer than other cities in Florida?
It varies by hazard. While Palm Bay has its own risk profile (Total Score: 99.0), it is among the higher-risk areas in Florida. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Palm Bay given the risk of Lightning?
Every city has risks. The threat of Lightning (Score: 99.4) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Palm Bay is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Palm Bay compare to other cities in Florida?
See the full Florida Disaster Rankings to see how Palm Bay stacks up against other cities in the state.