Winston-Salem Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 434,231 and a calculated risk score of 73.3, Winston-Salem faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Winston-Salem, NC. Winston-Salem is a city with a rich history and bright future. But smart residents know to keep an eye on the forecast. We found that lightning rank among the highest local hazards.
Total Risk Score
The numbers don't lie. Winston-Salem sits at a Risk Score of 73.259. This is driven by a combination of factors, most notably Lightning and Tornado.
Top Hazards for The Winston-Salem Area
As part of the wider North Carolina region, the threat of lightning should not be underestimated. However, this quantitative assessment yields a precise risk factor of 95.6. Power outages often accompany these events, making backup power (like batteries) essential.
From a statewide perspective in North Carolina, seasonality plays a huge role in the intensity of tornadoes here. Consequently, our algorithm flags this as a priority area with a calculated intensity of 91.1. Local schools and businesses typically have robust protocols for these weather events.
In the broader context of North Carolina's climate, landslides represent a significant vector of concern for Winston-Salem. Furthermore, recent climate normals and historical event data contribute to this elevated score of 87.6. A 'drop, cover, and hold on' drill should be practiced by every family member annually.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Winston-Salem? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Winston-Salem
Read the Full Guide →General preparedness is critical for Winston-Salem. 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 Winston-Salem
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
Home
Gorilla Tape (Black)
Heavy-duty tape for emergency repairs, sealing windows, or medical improvisation.
The best insurance against Lightning is preparation. Check your kit and ensure you are ready.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte | 88.3 | Choosing between Winston-Salem and Charlotte? Winston-Salem presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Raleigh | 90.2 | Raleigh and Winston-Salem share similar regional risks, but our data gives Winston-Salem the edge in overall safety. |
| Durham | 80.9 | Choosing between Winston-Salem and Durham? Winston-Salem presents a lower overall risk profile. |
| Greensboro | 81.4 | Greensboro and Winston-Salem share similar regional risks, but our data gives Winston-Salem the edge in overall safety. |
| Fayetteville | 88.3 | Choosing between Winston-Salem and Fayetteville? Winston-Salem presents a lower overall risk profile. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Lightnings in Winston-Salem?
With a risk score of 95.6 for Lightning, Winston-Salem is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Lightning events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Winston-Salem safer than other cities in North Carolina?
It varies by hazard. While Winston-Salem has its own risk profile (Total Score: 73.3), it is generally comparable to the average in North Carolina. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Winston-Salem given the risk of Tornado?
Every city has risks. The threat of Tornado (Score: 91.1) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Winston-Salem is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Winston-Salem compare to other cities in North Carolina?
See the full North Carolina Disaster Rankings to see how Winston-Salem stacks up against other cities in the state.