Philadelphia Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 5,696,588 and a calculated risk score of 97.4, Philadelphia faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Philadelphia, PA. The landscape around Philadelphia defines much of daily life. Yet, the geography also exposes the area to certain threats. The risk of heat waves is higher here than the national average.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Philadelphia sits at a Risk Score of 97.421. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Heat Wave and Tornado.
Top Hazards for The Philadelphia Area
Within the specific ecosystem of Pennsylvania, heat wave frequency is a defining characteristic of the local hazard profile. As a result, historical probability models result in a localized score of 99.9/100. A NOAA weather radio with battery backup is the most reliable way to receive alerts.
Environmental studies focusing on Pennsylvania highlight that the area's infrastructure faces consistent tests from tornado events. Additionally, federal hazard layers combined with local topography result in this 98.0 score. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
Historically, the climate of Pennsylvania dictates that historical precedents show that winter weather are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 97.6. A NOAA weather radio with battery backup is the most reliable way to receive alerts.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Philadelphia has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Philadelphia? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Philadelphia
Read the Full Guide →Extreme heat is a silent killer in Philadelphia. 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 Philadelphia
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.
Home
Gorilla Tape (Black)
Heavy-duty tape for emergency repairs, sealing windows, or medical improvisation.
The best insurance against Heat Wave is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Pittsburgh | 70.7 | Pittsburgh and Philadelphia share similar regional risks, but our data gives Pittsburgh the edge in overall safety. |
| Allentown | 75.8 | Choosing between Philadelphia and Allentown? Philadelphia presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Harrisburg | 84.9 | Harrisburg and Philadelphia share similar regional risks, but our data gives Harrisburg the edge in overall safety. |
| Lancaster | 83.9 | Choosing between Philadelphia and Lancaster? Philadelphia presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Scranton | 68.9 | When compared to Scranton, Philadelphia is slightly higher risk. The difference of 28.5 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Heat Waves in Philadelphia?
With a risk score of 99.9 for Heat Wave, Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia safer than other cities in Pennsylvania?
It varies by hazard. While Philadelphia has its own risk profile (Total Score: 97.4), it is among the higher-risk areas in Pennsylvania. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Philadelphia given the risk of Tornado?
Every city has risks. The threat of Tornado (Score: 98.0) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Philadelphia is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Philadelphia compare to other cities in Pennsylvania?
See the full Pennsylvania Disaster Rankings to see how Philadelphia stacks up against other cities in the state.