Natural Disaster Risk in Forest Lakes

Natural Hazard Profile: Forest Lakes, Arizona

Forest Lakes is a small unincorporated community in Coconino County, in the arid interior West. The area experiences intense summer heat and very low annual precipitation, with a summer monsoon season bringing flash flood risk 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 Forest Lakes.

FEMA rates Forest Lakes's composite natural disaster risk at 7.0 out of 10 — high risk. High lightning activity is the primary natural hazard concern, driven by frequent severe thunderstorm development that produces dense ground strike patterns across the area. Residents should also account for volcano and wildfire risk in their preparedness planning.

Forest Lakes's risk score, slightly above the 6.1/10 state average and well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Coconino County, the highest-scoring are lightning, volcano, and wildfire. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

Forest Lakes's high risk designation reflects meaningful exposure to natural hazards. Residents should verify that their insurance covers the area's primary risks, prepare a family emergency plan, and stay informed about seasonal hazard peaks through local weather and emergency management services.