Portland Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 2,084,045 and a calculated risk score of 97.8, Portland faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Portland, OR. From its neighborhoods to its downtown, Portland is unique. But ignoring the local climate risks is not an option. Our data indicates a specific vulnerability to landslides.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Portland sits at a Risk Score of 97.821. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Landslide and Earthquake.
Top Hazards for The Portland Area
Historically, the climate of Oregon dictates that historical precedents show that landslides are an ever-present reality. As a result, the aggregate danger score for this specific hazard stands at 99.6. Securing heavy furniture and knowing how to shut off gas lines are top priorities here.
When analyzing the risk profile of Oregon, Portland's geography makes it particularly susceptible to earthquake risks. Crucially, we've weighted historical incidence rates to arrive at a localized risk verification of 99.6. Bolt-down foundations and braced water heaters are standard requirements for safety.
Meteorological data for Oregon confirms that local planning increasingly focuses on mitigating volcanoes. In light of this, based on multi-decade trend analysis, we assign an exposure rating of 91.0. Structural retrofitting for older homes can significantly mitigate the danger of volcanoes.
Monitor Active Threats
Portland has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Portland? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Portland
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Portland. While specific risks vary, the fundamentals of survival—water, food, and information—remain the same.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Keep a physical map of the local area in case GPS fails.
- 2Maintain a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water.
- 3Have a first aid kit and a supply of prescription medications.
- 4Keep a battery-powered radio to stay informed during power outages.
- 5Establish a family communication plan for when cell towers are down.
Essential Gear for Portland
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 Landslide is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Eugene | 95.5 | Choosing between Portland and Eugene? Portland presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Salem | 95.1 | When compared to Salem, Portland is slightly higher risk. The difference of 2.7 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Medford | 89.9 | Medford and Portland share similar regional risks, but our data gives Medford the edge in overall safety. |
| Bend | 72.9 | Bend and Portland share similar regional risks, but our data gives Bend the edge in overall safety. |
| Gresham | 97.8 | Gresham and Portland share similar regional risks, but our data gives Gresham the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Landslides in Portland?
With a risk score of 99.6 for Landslide, Portland is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Landslide events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Portland safer than other cities in Oregon?
It varies by hazard. While Portland has its own risk profile (Total Score: 97.8), it is among the higher-risk areas in Oregon. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Portland given the risk of Earthquake?
Every city has risks. The threat of Earthquake (Score: 99.6) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Portland is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Portland compare to other cities in Oregon?
See the full Oregon Disaster Rankings to see how Portland stacks up against other cities in the state.