Natural Disaster Risk in Byrnedale

Natural Hazard Profile: Byrnedale, Pennsylvania

Byrnedale is a small unincorporated community in Elk County, in the Great Lakes region. The area experiences cold winters, warm summers, and four distinct seasons, with nor'easter exposure and spring river flooding 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 Byrnedale.

FEMA rates Byrnedale's composite natural disaster risk at 4.7 out of 10 — moderate risk. Snow avalanche exposure tops the local risk profile, with the area's mountain setting and annual snowfall loading producing regular avalanche cycles on steep slopes. Residents should also account for lightning and hurricane risk in their preparedness planning.

Byrnedale's risk score, slightly below the 5.9/10 state average and near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Elk County, the highest-scoring are avalanche, lightning, and hurricane. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Byrnedale 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.