Natural Disaster Risk in Hermiston

Natural Hazard Profile: Hermiston, Oregon

Hermiston is a city of approximately 28,512 residents in Umatilla County, in the Pacific Northwest. The area experiences mild, wet winters on the coast and semi-arid conditions inland, with a high wildfire risk period in the dry summer months shaping the pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Hermiston.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Hermiston carries an overall risk score of 7.5/10, placing it in the high category. Volcanic hazard exposure defines the local risk environment, driven by proximity to one of the most active volcanic systems in the United States. The area also faces notable exposure to wildfire and avalanche.

Hermiston's risk score, considerably above the 5.7/10 state average and well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Umatilla County, the highest-scoring are volcano, wildfire, and avalanche. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

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