Natural Disaster Risk — ZIP Code 21140

Natural Hazard Profile: ZIP 21140, Maryland

ZIP 21140 in Riva sits along the mid-Atlantic coast. Its humid subtropical climate produces warm summers, mild winters, and coastal storm exposure, and notably tropical storm and nor'easter impacts. These conditions define the natural disaster environment for households across this ZIP code.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, ZIP 21140 carries an overall risk score of 7.7/10, placing it in the high category. 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. The area also faces notable exposure to winter and lightning.

Within Maryland, ZIP 21140's risk is, slightly above the 6.5/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Maryland identifies coastal flood as the foremost hazard, followed by winter and lightning. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, ZIP 21140 residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for coastal flood 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.