Natural Disaster Risk in Oakland

Natural Hazard Profile: Oakland, New Jersey

Oakland, in Bergen County, is a city of approximately 12,740 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 Oakland residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Oakland carries an overall risk score of 7.5/10, placing it in the high category. Coastal flooding is the dominant hazard, with storm surge from tropical systems and nor'easters capable of inundating low-lying shoreline areas well above normal tidal levels. The area also faces notable exposure to winter and wind.

Within New Jersey, Oakland's risk is, near the 7.4/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Bergen County identifies coastal flood as the foremost hazard, followed by winter 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, Oakland 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.