Natural Disaster Risk in Los Angeles County

Natural Hazard Profile: Los Angeles County, California

Los Angeles County is located in the United States in California, home to roughly 10,005,712 residents. The county experiences dry summers and mild, wet winters with pronounced drought cycles, with a critical fire season from late summer through fall shaping the natural hazards faced by its communities. FEMA assesses risk at this county level, providing the baseline for every city and ZIP code within its boundaries.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Los Angeles County carries an overall risk score of 7.6/10, placing it in the high category. Earthquake risk stands out in the local hazard profile, driven by proximity to fault systems with a history of significant ground movement. The area also faces notable exposure to wildfire and avalanche.

Los Angeles County's risk score, considerably above the 5.9/10 state average and well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Los Angeles County, the highest-scoring are earthquake, wildfire, and avalanche. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Los Angeles County residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for earthquake and secondary hazards, registering for emergency alerts, and maintaining a household emergency kit are practical steps that can significantly reduce impact during a major event.