Bergen County Disaster Risk
Bergen County, New Jersey
FEMA Risk Rating
Relatively High
National Percentile
98th
of 3,144 counties
State Rank
#1
of 21 (1 = highest risk)
Flood Risk
100th
percentile
Hazard Risk Breakdown
Flood
River, coastal, and surface flooding risk
Very High
Higher than 100% of US counties
Wildfire
Wildland and wildland-urban interface fire risk
Very Low
Higher than 22% of US counties
Tornado
Tornado and severe thunderstorm risk
Moderate
Higher than 92% of US counties
Earthquake
Seismic activity and ground shaking risk
Relatively High
Higher than 96% of US counties
Hurricane
Tropical cyclone and hurricane risk
Moderate
Higher than 93% of US counties
Risk Overview
About Natural Disaster Risk in Bergen County, New Jersey
Bergen County faces relatively high risk
Bergen County registers a composite risk score of 97.84, placing it well above the national average and earning a relatively high overall disaster risk rating. This makes Bergen one of the more vulnerable counties in the nation for multiple hazard types.
Bergen ranks highest in New Jersey
At 97.84, Bergen County's composite risk score significantly exceeds New Jersey's state average of 90.81, making it the highest-risk county in the state. This elevation reflects acute vulnerability across several major hazard categories.
Bergen stands out from peers
Bergen County (97.84) substantially outpaces Essex County (97.71) to the south and is far above most other New Jersey counties in overall risk exposure. Its perfect 100.00 flood risk score is the highest in the state, reflecting intensive water and surge vulnerability.
Bergen's critical hazards
Flood risk peaks at a perfect 100.00, making Bergen the state's most flood-vulnerable county—a result of its coastal and low-lying inland areas. Tornado risk (92.30) and earthquake risk (96.02) also pose significant threats, though wildfire risk is relatively lower at 21.66.
Essential coverage for Bergen residents
Flood insurance is non-negotiable in Bergen County given the maximum 100.00 flood risk score; federal programs like NFIP provide coverage separate from standard homeowners policies. Additionally, earthquake and tornado coverage should be reviewed with your insurer, as these aren't always included in standard plans.
Source: FEMA National Risk Index · Narrative reviewed by Evan Brooks, Data Editor
Preparedness Guide
What to Prepare for in Bergen County
Top Hazards by Exposure
Source: FEMA National Risk Index v1.19.0 · Percentiles are national (3,144 counties)
Risk Advisory: Bergen County
Risk Verdict
Bergen County's composite risk score ranks at the 98th percentile nationally, reflecting genuine multi-hazard exposure for residents. At this risk level, having a documented household preparedness plan — not just awareness — is the meaningful next step for Bergen County residents.
Hazard Breakdown
Flood risk is Bergen County's dominant natural hazard, ranked at the 100th percentile nationally under FEMA's National Risk Index. Earthquake ranks second at the 96th percentile nationally. Additional tracked hazards include hurricane (93th percentile), tornado (92th percentile), wildfire (22th percentile).
Preparedness Context
At the 100th percentile nationally for flood risk, Bergen County residents benefit from understanding their specific flood zone status. Even one inch of floodwater causes significant structural damage to properties outside officially designated high-risk zones. The county's second-ranked hazard, earthquake at the 96th percentile nationally, means Bergen County residents face compounding risks from multiple natural hazard types during peak seasons. A tested family preparedness plan specific to Bergen County's primary hazards — including how to shelter in place or evacuate, and who to call — provides more real protection than a general emergency kit sitting unused on a shelf.
Regional Context
The New Jersey county average is 7.0 composite points below Bergen County's score, a gap that reflects the county's elevated position in the state's hazard distribution.
Is your household prepared for Bergen County's hazards?
Review FEMA's county-specific preparedness checklists and emergency planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the natural disaster risk in Bergen County, NJ?
What types of natural hazards affect Bergen County?
How does Bergen County risk compare to the New Jersey average?
Is Bergen County at risk for flooding?
How is natural disaster risk measured?
Why is Bergen County 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.