Salem Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 272,331 and a calculated risk score of 95.1, Salem faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Salem, OR. Living in Salem offers a unique lifestyle. But like any location, it has local climate challenges. The most significant threat to be aware of is landslides.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Salem a Risk Score of 95.094 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Landslide and Earthquake.
Top Hazards for The Salem Area
Within the specific ecosystem of Oregon, landslide frequency is a defining characteristic of the local hazard profile. As a result, historical probability models result in a localized score of 99.3/100. Securing heavy furniture and knowing how to shut off gas lines are top priorities here.
As part of the wider Oregon region, the threat of earthquakes should not be underestimated. However, this quantitative assessment yields a precise risk factor of 99.1. Unlike weather events, a earthquake offers no warning, demanding 24/7 readiness.
Considering the historical weather trends in Oregon, data indicates that Salem has a higher-than-average exposure to river flooding. It is important to note that this metric (score: 89.7) aligns with federal disaster declarations for the county. Updates to flood maps suggest this risk vector is increasing for many neighborhoods.
Monitor Active Threats
Salem has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Salem? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Salem
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Salem. 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 Salem
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.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Landslide now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Portland | 97.8 | Choosing between Salem and Portland? Salem presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Eugene | 95.5 | Eugene and Salem share similar regional risks, but our data gives Salem the edge in overall safety. |
| Medford | 89.9 | When compared to Medford, Salem is slightly higher risk. The difference of 5.2 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Bend | 72.9 | When compared to Bend, Salem is slightly higher risk. The difference of 22.2 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Gresham | 97.8 | When compared to Gresham, Salem is statistically safer. The difference of 2.7 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Landslides in Salem?
With a risk score of 99.3 for Landslide, Salem 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 Salem safer than other cities in Oregon?
It varies by hazard. While Salem has its own risk profile (Total Score: 95.1), it is among the higher-risk areas in Oregon. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Salem given the risk of Earthquake?
Every city has risks. The threat of Earthquake (Score: 99.1) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Salem is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Salem compare to other cities in Oregon?
See the full Oregon Disaster Rankings to see how Salem stacks up against other cities in the state.