Poughkeepsie Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 307,738 and a calculated risk score of 67.4, Poughkeepsie faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Poughkeepsie, NY. Poughkeepsie is a city with a rich history and bright future. But smart residents know to keep an eye on the forecast. We found that lightning rank among the highest local hazards.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Poughkeepsie a Risk Score of 67.430 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Lightning and Ice Storm.
Top Hazards for The Poughkeepsie Area
Across the diverse landscape of New York, lightning preparedness is ingrained in the local community culture. Furthermore, the generated risk index of 94.2 is derived from granular local inputs. Insulation and sealing drafts can be a lifesaver when a lightning strains the power grid.
For residents of New York, it is well known that local patterns show a recurring trend of ice storm activity. Moreover statistical analysis places this risk level at 90.8/100, requiring attention. For new residents, understanding the severity of ice storms in their specific zip code is vital.
When analyzing the risk profile of New York, Poughkeepsie's geography makes it particularly susceptible to landslide risks. Crucially, we've weighted historical incidence rates to arrive at a localized risk verification of 89.8. Bolt-down foundations and braced water heaters are standard requirements for safety.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Poughkeepsie has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.

The Apartment Fortress
Living in Poughkeepsie? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Poughkeepsie
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Poughkeepsie. 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 Poughkeepsie

Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.

Home
Gorilla Tape (Black)
Heavy-duty tape for emergency repairs, sealing windows, or medical improvisation.

Pets
PetBonus Collapsible Dog Bowls
Collapsible bowls for easy packing. Hydration is critical for pets during stress.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Lightning now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| New York | 96.2 | Choosing between Poughkeepsie and New York? Poughkeepsie presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Brooklyn | 97.2 | Choosing between Poughkeepsie and Brooklyn? Poughkeepsie presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Queens | 96.2 | Queens and Poughkeepsie share similar regional risks, but our data gives Poughkeepsie the edge in overall safety. |
| Manhattan | 94.2 | Manhattan and Poughkeepsie share similar regional risks, but our data gives Poughkeepsie the edge in overall safety. |
| Bronx | 94.5 | Choosing between Poughkeepsie and Bronx? Poughkeepsie presents a lower overall risk profile. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Lightnings in Poughkeepsie?
With a risk score of 94.2 for Lightning, Poughkeepsie 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 Poughkeepsie safer than other cities in New York?
It varies by hazard. While Poughkeepsie has its own risk profile (Total Score: 67.4), it is generally comparable to the average in New York. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Poughkeepsie given the risk of Ice Storm?
Every city has risks. The threat of Ice Storm (Score: 90.8) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Poughkeepsie is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Poughkeepsie compare to other cities in New York?
See the full New York Disaster Rankings to see how Poughkeepsie stacks up against other cities in the state.