Natural Disaster Risk in Kivalina

Natural Hazard Profile: Kivalina, Alaska

Located in Alaska, the northernmost U.S. state in Northwest Arctic County, Kivalina is a small community of about 809. The subarctic climate that characterizes this part of Alaska — marked by subarctic conditions with extreme cold winters and brief summers — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Kivalina a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Kivalina's overall natural disaster risk is rated 4.9/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Extreme cold snaps top the local risk profile, with Arctic front passages causing rapid and severe temperature drops that challenge both infrastructure and outdoor safety. Secondary hazards include volcano and avalanche.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Kivalina's natural disaster risk is near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, near the 4.6/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by cold wave and volcano, as measured by FEMA across Northwest Arctic County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Kivalina residents are well-served by maintaining standard preparedness practices — an emergency supply kit, awareness of local hazard seasonality, and insurance that covers the top local risks. Periodic review of coverage for cold wave is recommended.