Natural Disaster Risk — ZIP Code 17856

Natural Hazard Profile: ZIP 17856, Pennsylvania

ZIP 17856 covers part of the New Columbia area, in the Great Lakes region. The surrounding region experiences cold winters, warm summers, and four distinct seasons, with nor'easter exposure and spring river flooding shaping the natural hazards that residents of this ZIP code face. Risk scores here are derived from FEMA data for the encompassing county.

FEMA rates ZIP 17856's composite natural disaster risk at 5.2 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 wind and hurricane risk in their preparedness planning.

ZIP 17856's risk score, slightly below the 5.9/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA, the highest-scoring are avalanche, wind, 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, ZIP 17856 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.