Natural Disaster Risk — ZIP Code 90038

Natural Hazard Profile: ZIP 90038, California

ZIP 90038 in Los Angeles sits in the southwestern United States with Pacific Coast influence. Its Mediterranean climate produces dry summers and mild, wet winters with pronounced drought cycles, and notably a critical fire season from late summer through fall. These conditions define the natural disaster environment for households across this ZIP code.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, ZIP 90038 carries an overall risk score of 7.6/10, placing it in the high category. Seismic activity is the dominant hazard, with the community situated in or near an active tectonic zone capable of producing damaging ground shaking. The area also faces notable exposure to wildfire and avalanche.

Within California, ZIP 90038's risk is, considerably above the 5.9/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of California identifies earthquake as the foremost hazard, followed by wildfire and avalanche. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, ZIP 90038 residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for earthquake 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.