Natural Disaster Risk in Sedona

Natural Hazard Profile: Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is a city of approximately 11,381 residents in Yavapai 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 Sedona.

FEMA rates Sedona's composite natural disaster risk at 6.5 out of 10 — high risk. The threat of wildfire dominates the local risk environment, with hot, dry summers and abundant fuel creating dangerous fire conditions each year. Residents should also account for lightning and volcano risk in their preparedness planning.

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

Sedona'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.