Salinas Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 172,995 and a calculated risk score of 97.4, Salinas faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Salinas, CA. From its neighborhoods to its downtown, Salinas 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. Salinas sits at a Risk Score of 97.418. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Landslide and Earthquake.
Top Hazards for The Salinas Area
From a statewide perspective in California, seasonality plays a huge role in the intensity of landslides here. Consequently, our algorithm flags this as a priority area with a calculated intensity of 99.5. Families should have a reunification plan for when an event occurs during work/school hours.
For residents of California, it is well known that local patterns show a recurring trend of earthquake activity. Moreover statistical analysis places this risk level at 99.4/100, requiring attention. Having an out-of-area contact is crucial when local communication lines inevitably fail.
Environmental studies focusing on California highlight that the area's infrastructure faces consistent tests from river flooding events. Additionally, federal hazard layers combined with local topography result in this 98.4 score. For those near water, having a 'go-bag' ready for rapid evacuation is non-negotiable.
Monitor Active Threats
Salinas has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Salinas? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Salinas
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Salinas. 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 Salinas
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.
Home
Gorilla Tape (Black)
Heavy-duty tape for emergency repairs, sealing windows, or medical improvisation.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 100.0 | When compared to Los Angeles, Salinas is statistically safer. The difference of 2.6 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| San Francisco | 98.3 | San Francisco and Salinas share similar regional risks, but our data gives Salinas the edge in overall safety. |
| San Diego | 99.6 | Choosing between Salinas and San Diego? Salinas presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Riverside | 99.9 | Choosing between Salinas and Riverside? Salinas presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Sacramento | 96.3 | Sacramento and Salinas share similar regional risks, but our data gives Sacramento the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Landslides in Salinas?
With a risk score of 99.5 for Landslide, Salinas 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 Salinas safer than other cities in California?
It varies by hazard. While Salinas has its own risk profile (Total Score: 97.4), it is among the higher-risk areas in California. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Salinas given the risk of Earthquake?
Every city has risks. The threat of Earthquake (Score: 99.4) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Salinas is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Salinas compare to other cities in California?
See the full California Disaster Rankings to see how Salinas stacks up against other cities in the state.