Santa Fe Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 94,032 and a calculated risk score of 74.5, Santa Fe faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Santa Fe, NM. The landscape around Santa Fe defines much of daily life. Yet, the geography also exposes the area to certain threats. The risk of wildfires is higher here than the national average.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 74.515, Santa Fe requires specific preparation. The data highlights Wildfire as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Wildfire risk in Santa Fe, New Mexico
The dry climate and vegetation surrounding Santa Fe create conducive conditions for wildfires, especially during drought seasons. Residents in the wildland-urban interface need to be particularly vigilant about defensible space.
Santa Fe Wildfire Evacuation Plan
- •Clear dry leaves and debris from gutters and roof
- •Have a 'Go Bag' packed and ready near the door
- •Sign up for local emergency alerts
Top Hazards for The Santa Fe Area
Long-standing weather records for New Mexico indicate citizens here are statistically more likely to encounter wildfires. Crucially, an analytical review of past disasters puts the current risk tier at 98.3. Residents should subscribe to local 'Red Flag' alerts to stay ahead of rapid ignitions.
As part of the wider New Mexico region, the threat of lightning should not be underestimated. However, this quantitative assessment yields a precise risk factor of 93.6. Power outages often accompany these events, making backup power (like batteries) essential.
Environmental studies focusing on New Mexico highlight that the area's infrastructure faces consistent tests from earthquake events. Additionally, federal hazard layers combined with local topography result in this 91.9 score. Emergency kits must include shoes and gloves to navigate debris after an event.
Monitor Active Threats
Santa Fe has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Santa Fe? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Santa Fe
Read the Full Guide →Residents of Santa Fe must prioritize defensible space and air quality. Fire moves fast, and smoke can be just as dangerous. Your preparation should focus on rapid evacuation and respiratory protection.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Keep gutters clean of dry leaves and debris.
- 2Have N95 masks in your kit for smoke protection.
- 3Pack a 'Go-Bag' with wool blankets and protective clothing.
- 4Know at least two evacuation routes out of your neighborhood.
- 5Create defensible space by clearing dry vegetation 30ft from your home.
Essential Gear for Santa Fe
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
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power 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 Wildfire warning to start packing. Secure your essential gear today.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Albuquerque | 84.5 | Albuquerque and Santa Fe share similar regional risks, but our data gives Santa Fe the edge in overall safety. |
| Las Cruces | 81.2 | Choosing between Santa Fe and Las Cruces? Santa Fe presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Rio Rancho | 70.7 | Choosing between Santa Fe and Rio Rancho? Santa Fe presents a unique set of challenges. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Wildfires in Santa Fe?
With a risk score of 98.3 for Wildfire, Santa Fe is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Wildfire events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Santa Fe safer than other cities in New Mexico?
It varies by hazard. While Santa Fe has its own risk profile (Total Score: 74.5), it is generally comparable to the average in New Mexico. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Santa Fe given the risk of Lightning?
Every city has risks. The threat of Lightning (Score: 93.6) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Santa Fe is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Santa Fe compare to other cities in New Mexico?
See the full New Mexico Disaster Rankings to see how Santa Fe stacks up against other cities in the state.