Natural Disaster Risk in Saint Johnsbury

Natural Hazard Profile: Saint Johnsbury, Vermont

Saint Johnsbury, in Caledonia County, is a town of roughly 9,106 residents situated along the northeastern Atlantic Seaboard. Its humid continental climate brings long, snowy winters and cool summers, and in particular nor'easters and spring flooding from snowmelt. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Saint Johnsbury residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Saint Johnsbury carries an overall risk score of 5.0/10, placing it in the moderate category. 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. The area also faces notable exposure to hurricane and landslide.

Within Vermont, Saint Johnsbury's risk is, near the 5.1/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Caledonia County identifies avalanche as the foremost hazard, followed by hurricane and landslide. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Saint Johnsbury's moderate risk profile means that while catastrophic events are less frequent, they do occur. Standard homeowners insurance typically covers many common hazards here, but confirming that avalanche exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.