Natural Disaster Risk in Wildwood

Natural Hazard Profile: Wildwood, New Jersey

Wildwood, in Cape May County, is a city of approximately 12,959 residents situated along the mid-Atlantic coast. 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 Wildwood residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Wildwood carries an overall risk score of 6.6/10, 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 wind and hurricane.

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

Wildwood's high risk designation reflects meaningful exposure to natural hazards. Residents should verify that their insurance covers the area's primary risks, prepare a family emergency plan, and stay informed about seasonal hazard peaks through local weather and emergency management services.