Santa Rosa Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 299,986 and a calculated risk score of 98.6, Santa Rosa faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Santa Rosa, CA. From its neighborhoods to its downtown, Santa Rosa is unique. But ignoring the local climate risks is not an option. Our data indicates a specific vulnerability to earthquakes.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Santa Rosa sits at a Risk Score of 98.580. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Earthquake and Wildfire.
Earthquake risk in Santa Rosa, California
Santa Rosa'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.
Santa Rosa 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 Santa Rosa Area
Looking at the long-term climate history of California, resilience against earthquakes is a key aspect of local safety. Therefore, we calculate a specific index of 99.6, indicating a substantial threat level. Understanding the local soil type (liquefaction risk) can inform home buying decisions.
Given the environmental patterns common in California, the potential for wildfires in Santa Rosa stands out as a primary factor. Additionally, this score of 98.8 reflects both the frequency and potential severity of events. Landscaping choices play a huge role in determining a property's resilience to wildfire.
Meteorological data for California confirms that local planning increasingly focuses on mitigating river flooding. In light of this, based on multi-decade trend analysis, we assign an exposure rating of 98.7. Understanding the difference between a river flooding watch and warning can be a lifesaver.
Monitor Active Threats
Santa Rosa has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Santa Rosa? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Santa Rosa
Read the Full Guide →In Santa Rosa, 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 Santa Rosa
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.
The best insurance against Earthquake 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, Santa Rosa is statistically safer. The difference of 1.4 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| San Francisco | 98.3 | San Francisco and Santa Rosa share similar regional risks, but our data gives San Francisco the edge in overall safety. |
| San Diego | 99.6 | Choosing between Santa Rosa and San Diego? Santa Rosa presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Riverside | 99.9 | Choosing between Santa Rosa and Riverside? Santa Rosa presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Sacramento | 96.3 | Sacramento and Santa Rosa share similar regional risks, but our data gives Sacramento the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Earthquakes in Santa Rosa?
With a risk score of 99.6 for Earthquake, Santa Rosa 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 Santa Rosa safer than other cities in California?
It varies by hazard. While Santa Rosa has its own risk profile (Total Score: 98.6), it is among the higher-risk areas in California. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Santa Rosa given the risk of Wildfire?
Every city has risks. The threat of Wildfire (Score: 98.8) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Santa Rosa is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Santa Rosa compare to other cities in California?
See the full California Disaster Rankings to see how Santa Rosa stacks up against other cities in the state.