Utica Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 114,961 and a calculated risk score of 62.0, Utica faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Utica, NY. Living in Utica offers a unique lifestyle. But like any location, it has unique set of risks. The most significant threat to be aware of is river flooding.
Total Risk Score
With a calculated Risk Score of 61.990, Utica requires specific preparation. The data highlights River Flooding as the most critical threat to mitigate.
Top Hazards for The Utica Area
In terms of regional hazard exposure in New York, the proximity to specific terrain features amplifies the river flooding risk. It is important to note that this value of 94.4 serves as a benchmark for local insurance and safety planning. Updates to flood maps suggest this risk vector is increasing for many neighborhoods.
Considering the historical weather trends in New York, data indicates that Utica has a higher-than-average exposure to ice storms. It is important to note that this metric (score: 93.6) aligns with federal disaster declarations for the county. Keeping trees trimmed near power lines reduces the risk of prolonged outages.
Regional data for New York suggests that the area is historically prone to periods of lightning. Consequently, the data-driven score of 87.8 underscores the need for preparedness. Local schools and businesses typically have robust protocols for these weather events.
Winter Grid Failure Guide
Utica has significant winter storm risk. Learn the thermodynamics of survival when the power goes out.

The Apartment Fortress
Living in Utica? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Utica
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Utica. 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 Utica

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.

Pets
PetBonus Collapsible Dog Bowls
Collapsible bowls for easy packing. Hydration is critical for pets during stress.
Do not wait for a River Flooding warning to start packing. Secure your essential gear today.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| New York | 96.2 | New York and Utica share similar regional risks, but our data gives Utica the edge in overall safety. |
| Brooklyn | 97.2 | Brooklyn and Utica share similar regional risks, but our data gives Utica the edge in overall safety. |
| Queens | 96.2 | When compared to Queens, Utica is statistically safer. The difference of 34.3 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Manhattan | 94.2 | When compared to Manhattan, Utica is statistically safer. The difference of 32.2 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Bronx | 94.5 | Bronx and Utica share similar regional risks, but our data gives Utica the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are River Floodings in Utica?
With a risk score of 94.4 for River Flooding, Utica is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for River Flooding events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Utica safer than other cities in New York?
It varies by hazard. While Utica has its own risk profile (Total Score: 62.0), it is generally comparable to the average in New York. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Utica given the risk of Ice Storm?
Every city has risks. The threat of Ice Storm (Score: 93.6) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Utica is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Utica compare to other cities in New York?
See the full New York Disaster Rankings to see how Utica stacks up against other cities in the state.