Natural Disaster Risk in Syracuse

Natural Hazard Profile: Syracuse, New York

Located in the Great Lakes region in Onondaga County, Syracuse is a city of approximately 22,993 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 Syracuse a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Syracuse's overall natural disaster risk is rated 7.5/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Wind damage from severe weather systems tops the local risk profile, with open terrain and frequent storm activity amplifying exposure to destructive gusts. Secondary hazards include winter and ice storm.

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

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Syracuse residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for wind 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.