Aleutians West Census Area Disaster Risk
Aleutians West Census Area, Alaska
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively Low
National Percentile
67th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#5
of 30 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
0th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Very Low
Higher than 0% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 0% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Very Low
Higher than 1% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Moderate
Higher than 90% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Aleutians West Census Area, Alaska
Low risk despite high earthquake potential
Aleutians West Census Area's composite score of 67.30 falls well below the national average, earning a Relatively Low rating despite significant seismic activity. The area's low overall risk reflects minimal exposure to flooding, wildfires, and tornadoes that amplify hazards elsewhere.
Mid-range risk across Alaska's map
This census area's 67.30 score ranks it in the middle tier of Alaska's 29 counties, above the state average of 35.22. It's considerably riskier than Aleutians East Borough but safer than major population centers like Anchorage.
Riskier than eastern Aleutian neighbor
Aleutians West Census Area at 67.30 carries three times the risk of nearby Aleutians East Borough (21.34), driven primarily by earthquake exposure. Both regions face similar seismic threats, but Aleutians West's higher composite score reflects other contributing hazard factors.
Earthquakes dominate hazard profile
An extreme earthquake risk score of 89.66 makes seismic activity the overwhelming natural disaster threat here—among the highest in Alaska. Tornado, flood, and wildfire risks remain minimal, making earthquake preparedness the clear priority.
Earthquake insurance is non-negotiable
With a 89.66 earthquake risk score, this census area faces some of Alaska's most severe seismic exposure—standard homeowners policies won't cover earthquake damage. Secure dedicated earthquake coverage and anchor heavy furniture and appliances to protect your family and property.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Aleutians West Census Area
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Aleutians West Census Area
Risk Verdict
Aleutians West Census Area has a below-average natural disaster risk profile, scoring at the 67th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Households in Aleutians West Census Area benefit from knowing which individual hazard types — flood, wildfire, tornado, or hurricane — are the primary contributors.
Hazard Breakdown
Earthquake risk is Aleutians West Census Area's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 90th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Tornado ranks second at the 1th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include flood (0th percentile), wildfire (0th percentile).
Preparedness Context
Earthquake risk is Aleutians West Census Area's leading natural hazard, ranked at the 90th percentile nationally. Securing tall furniture, water heaters, and bookcases to walls with anti-tip hardware is among the simplest and most effective life-safety measures households can take. Aleutians West Census Area's secondary tornado exposure at the 1th percentile nationally means households should maintain a multi-hazard preparedness plan rather than focusing exclusively on earthquake readiness. Aleutians West Census Area residents should locate the main gas shutoff valve and keep an appropriate wrench nearby — gas leaks cause a significant share of earthquake-related injuries and fires, and the shutoff step is safe to take immediately after shaking stops.
Regional Context
Aleutians West Census Area's composite risk score sits 32.1 points above the Alaska county average, placing it among the more hazard-exposed counties in the state.
Is your household prepared for Aleutians West Census Area's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Aleutians West Census Area, AK?
What types of natural hazards affect Aleutians West Census Area?
How does Aleutians West Census Area risk compare to the Alaska average?
Is Aleutians West Census Area at risk for earthquake?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Aleutians West Census Area higher risk than average?
Data Source
Risk data sourced from the FEMA National Risk Index (NRI). Risk scores are relative rankings (0–100) across all US counties — not absolute risk measures. Higher scores indicate higher relative risk compared to other counties.
Disclaimer: This data is informational only. It is not financial, insurance, or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making insurance or real estate decisions.