Natural Disaster Risk in Burlington

Natural Hazard Profile: Burlington, New Jersey

Burlington, in Burlington County, is a city of approximately 34,920 residents situated along the northeastern Atlantic Seaboard. Its humid subtropical climate brings warm summers, cold winters, and significant coastal storm exposure, and in particular nor'easters, coastal flooding, and tropical storm threats. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Burlington residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Burlington carries an overall risk score of 8.0/10, placing it in the very high category. High-wind events from severe thunderstorms and derechos are the leading hazard, with damaging gusts capable of downing trees and causing widespread structural damage. The area also faces notable exposure to winter and coastal flood.

Within New Jersey, Burlington's risk is, slightly above the 7.4/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Burlington County identifies wind as the foremost hazard, followed by winter and coastal flood. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Given Burlington's very high risk classification, residents should treat disaster preparedness as a year-round priority. This means maintaining updated homeowners and flood insurance, building a 72-hour emergency kit, knowing the evacuation routes for the primary hazards, and signing up for local emergency alert systems.