Salt Lake City Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 1,169,033 and a calculated risk score of 98.3, Salt Lake City faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Salt Lake City, UT. From its neighborhoods to its downtown, Salt Lake City is unique. But ignoring the local climate risks is not an option. Our data indicates a specific vulnerability to earthquakes.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Salt Lake City a Risk Score of 98.308 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Earthquake and Wildfire.
Earthquake risk in Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City's location near active fault lines makes earthquake preparedness critical for all residents. While seismic retrofitting has improved infrastructure, the potential for a significant magnitude event remains a primary hazard concern for the region.
Salt Lake City Earthquake Safety
- •Secure heavy furniture and water heaters to wall studs
- •Create a family communication plan for when cell towers fail
- •Keep sturdy shoes and a flashlight tied to your bedframe
Top Hazards for The Salt Lake City Area
When analyzing the risk profile of Utah, Salt Lake City's geography makes it particularly susceptible to earthquake risks. Crucially, we've weighted historical incidence rates to arrive at a localized risk verification of 99.6. Bolt-down foundations and braced water heaters are standard requirements for safety.
Given the environmental patterns common in Utah, the potential for wildfires in Salt Lake City stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 99.2 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. Landscaping choices play a huge role in determining a property's resilience to wildfire.
Long-standing weather records for Utah indicate citizens here are statistically more likely to encounter winter weather. Crucially, an analytical review of past disasters puts the current risk tier at 97.4. Surge protectors and whole-home backup solutions are increasingly popular investments.
Monitor Active Threats
Salt Lake City has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Salt Lake City has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Salt Lake City? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Salt Lake City
Read the Full Guide →In Salt Lake City, warning times are minimal. The ground can shift without notice, making immediate physical safety your priority. Your home environment needs to be 'quake-proofed' long before the shaking starts.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Store breakable items in low, latched cabinets.
- 2Secure heavy furniture and appliances to the walls.
- 3Identify safe spots (under sturdy tables) in each room.
- 4Keep a pair of sturdy shoes and a flashlight tied to your bedframe.
- 5Know how to shut off your gas line manually and have the tool nearby.
Essential Gear for Salt Lake City
Water
Scepter 2.5 Gallon Water Container
Lighter and easier to carry than the 5-gallon version.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Earthquake now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Provo | 95.4 | Choosing between Salt Lake City and Provo? Salt Lake City presents a unique set of challenges. |
| Ogden | 91.2 | Choosing between Salt Lake City and Ogden? Salt Lake City presents a unique set of challenges. |
| St. George | 94.0 | When compared to St. George, Salt Lake City is slightly higher risk. The difference of 4.3 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| West Valley City | 98.3 | When compared to West Valley City, Salt Lake City is slightly higher risk. The difference of 0.0 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Logan | 81.2 | Choosing between Salt Lake City and Logan? Salt Lake City presents a unique set of challenges. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Earthquakes in Salt Lake City?
With a risk score of 99.6 for Earthquake, Salt Lake City is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Earthquake events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Salt Lake City safer than other cities in Utah?
It varies by hazard. While Salt Lake City has its own risk profile (Total Score: 98.3), it is among the higher-risk areas in Utah. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Salt Lake City given the risk of Wildfire?
Every city has risks. The threat of Wildfire (Score: 99.2) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Salt Lake City is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Salt Lake City compare to other cities in Utah?
See the full Utah Disaster Rankings to see how Salt Lake City stacks up against other cities in the state.