Natural Disaster Risk in Wrangell

Natural Hazard Profile: Wrangell, Alaska

Wrangell, in Wrangell County, is a small community of about 2,087 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 Wrangell residents and property owners must navigate.

Wrangell's overall natural disaster risk is rated 3.5/10 (Low) 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 avalanche and landslide.

Within Alaska, Wrangell's risk is, slightly below the 4.6/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks below the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Wrangell County identifies volcano 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.

Wrangell carries a below-average natural disaster risk, reflecting fewer and less severe hazard exposures than typical U.S. communities. Even so, the area's primary risk — volcano — warrants awareness and appropriate insurance coverage, as lower risk does not mean zero risk.