Natural Disaster Risk in Port Washington

Natural Hazard Profile: Port Washington, Wisconsin

Located in the Great Lakes region in Ozaukee County, Port Washington is a city of approximately 13,682 residents. The humid continental climate that characterizes this part of Wisconsin — marked by long, cold winters with lake-effect snow and warm summers — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Port Washington a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

FEMA rates Port Washington's composite natural disaster risk at 5.1 out of 10 — moderate risk. Coastal flooding is the dominant hazard, with storm surge from tropical systems and nor'easters capable of inundating low-lying shoreline areas well above normal tidal levels. Residents should also account for cold wave and hail risk in their preparedness planning.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Port Washington's natural disaster risk is above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, near the 5.4/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by coastal flood and cold wave, as measured by FEMA across Ozaukee County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

Port Washington'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 coastal flood exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.