Natural Disaster Risk in Worthington

Natural Hazard Profile: Worthington, Massachusetts

Worthington, in Hampshire County, is a small community of about 979 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 Worthington residents and property owners must navigate.

Worthington's overall natural disaster risk is rated 6.5/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Tropical cyclones are the dominant hazard, with the area facing threats from both direct landfalling hurricanes and the outer rain bands and storm surge of systems making landfall nearby. Secondary hazards include avalanche and ice storm.

Within Massachusetts, Worthington's risk is, near the 6.5/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Hampshire County identifies hurricane as the foremost hazard, followed by avalanche and ice storm. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

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