Portsmouth Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 94,815 and a calculated risk score of 75.1, Portsmouth faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Portsmouth, NH. Calling Portsmouth home means understanding its environment. While often overlooked, the local hazard data is clear. The numbers show a clear susceptibility to lightning.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Portsmouth sits at a Risk Score of 75.135. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Lightning and Hurricane.
Top Hazards for The Portsmouth Area
Environmental studies focusing on New Hampshire highlight that the area's infrastructure faces consistent tests from lightning events. Additionally, federal hazard layers combined with local topography result in this 93.0 score. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
In the broader context of New Hampshire's climate, hurricanes represent a significant vector of concern for Portsmouth. Furthermore, recent climate normals and historical event data contribute to this elevated score of 88.8. Protecting property involves elevating critical utilities above potential water lines.
The geographical layout of New Hampshire means that emergency services prioritize readiness for these earthquake scenarios. Therefore, deep learning models analyzing weather patterns output this risk metric of 86.9. Understanding the local soil type (liquefaction risk) can inform home buying decisions.
Monitor Active Threats
Portsmouth has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Portsmouth? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Portsmouth
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Portsmouth. 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 Portsmouth
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Water
Scepter 5 Gallon Water Container
Bombproof water storage. 5 gallons is the minimum for one person for 5 days.
The best insurance against Lightning is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Nashua | 84.0 | Choosing between Portsmouth and Nashua? Portsmouth presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Manchester | 84.0 | Manchester and Portsmouth share similar regional risks, but our data gives Portsmouth the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Lightnings in Portsmouth?
With a risk score of 93.0 for Lightning, Portsmouth is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Lightning events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Portsmouth safer than other cities in New Hampshire?
It varies by hazard. While Portsmouth has its own risk profile (Total Score: 75.1), it is generally comparable to the average in New Hampshire. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Portsmouth given the risk of Hurricane?
Every city has risks. The threat of Hurricane (Score: 88.8) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Portsmouth is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Portsmouth compare to other cities in New Hampshire?
See the full New Hampshire Disaster Rankings to see how Portsmouth stacks up against other cities in the state.