Natural Disaster Risk in Wakefield

Natural Hazard Profile: Wakefield, Michigan

Wakefield, in Gogebic County, is a small community of about 2,203 situated in the northern tier of the continental United States. Its humid continental climate brings severe winters amplified by lake-effect snow and warm, humid summers, and in particular intense lake-effect snowstorms off Lake Michigan and Lake Erie. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Wakefield residents and property owners must navigate.

Wakefield's overall natural disaster risk is rated 4.6/10 (Moderate) 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 lightning and winter.

Within Michigan, Wakefield's risk is, slightly below the 5.3/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Gogebic County identifies coastal flood as the foremost hazard, followed by lightning and winter. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Wakefield residents are well-served by maintaining standard preparedness practices — an emergency supply kit, awareness of local hazard seasonality, and insurance that covers the top local risks. Periodic review of coverage for coastal flood is recommended.