Natural Disaster Risk in Ashland

Natural Hazard Profile: Ashland, Maine

Ashland, in Aroostook County, is a small community of about 1,427 situated along the northeastern Atlantic Seaboard. Its humid continental climate brings long, harsh winters and brief summers with heavy snowfall, and in particular powerful nor'easter blizzards. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Ashland residents and property owners must navigate.

Ashland's overall natural disaster risk is rated 6.2/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Severe winter storms top the local risk profile, bringing blizzard conditions, ice storms, and extreme cold that pose health risks and cause extensive property and infrastructure damage. Secondary hazards include cold wave and avalanche.

Within Maine, Ashland's risk is, near the 6.2/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Aroostook County identifies winter 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.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Ashland residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for winter 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.