Natural Disaster Risk in Shaktoolik

Natural Hazard Profile: Shaktoolik, Alaska

Shaktoolik, in Nome 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 Shaktoolik residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Shaktoolik carries an overall risk score of 4.8/10, placing it in the moderate category. Volcanic activity is the foremost natural hazard, with the area situated near active volcanic systems capable of producing lava flows, ashfall, and pyroclastic hazards. The area also faces notable exposure to cold wave and avalanche.

Within Alaska, Shaktoolik's risk is, near the 4.6/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Nome County identifies volcano as the foremost hazard, followed by cold wave and avalanche. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Shaktoolik 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 volcano is recommended.