Natural Disaster Risk in Shishmaref

Natural Hazard Profile: Shishmaref, Alaska

Shishmaref is a small unincorporated community in Nome County, in Alaska, the northernmost U.S. state. The area experiences subarctic conditions with extreme cold winters and brief summers, with severe winter storms shaping the pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Shishmaref.

FEMA rates Shishmaref's composite natural disaster risk at 4.8 out of 10 — moderate risk. The threat from nearby active volcanoes tops the local risk profile, with potential hazards including ash fall that disrupts air travel and agriculture, and lava that threatens infrastructure. Residents should also account for cold wave and avalanche risk in their preparedness planning.

Shishmaref's risk score, near the 4.6/10 state average and near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Nome County, the highest-scoring are volcano, cold wave, and avalanche. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

Shishmaref's moderate risk profile means that while catastrophic events are less frequent, they do occur. Standard homeowners insurance typically covers many common hazards here, but confirming that volcano exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.