Providence Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 1,270,529 and a calculated risk score of 84.3, Providence faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Providence, RI. Providence is a city with a rich history and bright future. But smart residents know to keep an eye on the forecast. We found that heat waves rank among the highest local hazards.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 84.327, Providence requires specific preparation. The data highlights Heat Wave as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Top Hazards for The Providence Area
Environmental studies focusing on Rhode Island highlight that the area's infrastructure faces consistent tests from heat wave events. Additionally, federal hazard layers combined with local topography result in this 96.8 score. During these events, checking on elderly neighbors is a critical community responsibility.
Considering the historical weather trends in Rhode Island, data indicates that Providence has a higher-than-average exposure to hurricanes. It is important to note that this metric (score: 93.4) aligns with federal disaster declarations for the county. Updates to flood maps suggest this risk vector is increasing for many neighborhoods.
The geographical layout of Rhode Island means that emergency services prioritize readiness for these river flooding scenarios. Therefore, deep learning models analyzing weather patterns output this risk metric of 90.9. Sandbagging locations and shelter routes should be identified before the season starts.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Providence? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Providence
Read the Full Guide →Extreme heat is a silent killer in Providence. 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 Providence
Water
COOZMENT 3.2 Gallon Container with Spigot
A solid middle-ground option with a built-in spigot. Good for camping or countertop use.
Power
Jackery Explorer 300
Keep phones and laptops charged during multi-day outages.
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Do not wait for a Heat Wave warning to start packing. Secure your essential gear today.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
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Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Heat Waves in Providence?
With a risk score of 96.8 for Heat Wave, Providence 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 Providence safer than other cities in Rhode Island?
It varies by hazard. While Providence has its own risk profile (Total Score: 84.3), it is generally comparable to the average in Rhode Island. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Providence given the risk of Hurricane?
Every city has risks. The threat of Hurricane (Score: 93.4) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Providence is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Providence compare to other cities in Rhode Island?
See the full Rhode Island Disaster Rankings to see how Providence stacks up against other cities in the state.