Natural Disaster Risk in Machias

Natural Hazard Profile: Machias, New York

Located in the Great Lakes region in Cattaraugus County, Machias is a small community of about 1,997. The humid continental climate that characterizes this part of New York — marked by cold winters, warm summers, and significant regional climate variation — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Machias a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

FEMA rates Machias's composite natural disaster risk at 5.9 out of 10 — moderate risk. Avalanche risk is the dominant natural hazard, with steep mountain terrain and heavy seasonal snowpack creating conditions for dangerous snow slides in and around the area. Residents should also account for lightning and landslide risk in their preparedness planning.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Machias's natural disaster risk is above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, near the 6.1/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by avalanche and lightning, as measured by FEMA across Cattaraugus County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Machias 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 avalanche is recommended.