Natural Disaster Risk in Duxbury

Natural Hazard Profile: Duxbury, Massachusetts

Duxbury, in Plymouth County, is a city of approximately 16,185 residents situated along the northeastern Atlantic Seaboard. Its humid continental climate brings cold winters with heavy snowfall and warm summers, and in particular nor'easter storms bringing heavy snow and coastal flooding. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Duxbury residents and property owners must navigate.

Duxbury's overall natural disaster risk is rated 6.9/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. The risk of coastal inundation tops the local hazard profile, with the area exposed to storm surge, tidal flooding, and wave action during major coastal storm events. Secondary hazards include hurricane and wind.

Within Massachusetts, Duxbury's risk is, slightly above the 6.5/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Plymouth County identifies coastal flood as the foremost hazard, followed by hurricane and wind. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Duxbury residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for coastal flood 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.