Natural Disaster Risk in Oswego

Natural Hazard Profile: Oswego, New York

Located in the Great Lakes region in Oswego County, Oswego is a city of approximately 36,495 residents. 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 Oswego a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Oswego's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.8/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. The area faces significant winter hazard exposure, with nor'easters, ice storms, or blizzards regularly challenging transportation networks and power infrastructure. Secondary hazards include coastal flood and ice storm.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Oswego'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 winter and coastal flood, as measured by FEMA across Oswego County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Oswego 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 winter is recommended.