Natural Disaster Risk in Wales

Natural Hazard Profile: Wales, Alaska

Wales, 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 Wales residents and property owners must navigate.

Wales's overall natural disaster risk is rated 4.8/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. 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. Secondary hazards include cold wave and avalanche.

Within Alaska, Wales'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.

Wales'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.