Natural Disaster Risk in Manley Hot Springs

Natural Hazard Profile: Manley Hot Springs, Alaska

Manley Hot Springs, in Yukon-Koyukuk County, is a small unincorporated community situated in Alaska, the northernmost U.S. state. Its subarctic climate brings subarctic conditions with extreme cold winters and brief summers, and in particular severe winter storms. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Manley Hot Springs residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Manley Hot Springs carries an overall risk score of 5.2/10, placing it in the moderate category. Arctic air outbreaks are the leading natural hazard, with temperature plunges to dangerous lows capable of causing hypothermia and widespread infrastructure failures. The area also faces notable exposure to avalanche and landslide.

Within Alaska, Manley Hot Springs's risk is, slightly above the 4.6/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Yukon-Koyukuk County identifies cold wave as the foremost hazard, followed by avalanche and landslide. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Manley Hot Springs 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.