Hazard Score
3 Catastrophes Recorded
Surprise, Arizona
26 Land Tracts in Maricopa County , Agua Fria Watershed
Surprise, Arizona is located in Maricopa County, which has a relatively high risk for natural disasters. The area is prone to wildfires due to its dry climate with low humidity levels. With a high average temperature and low precipitation levels, the risk of wildfires is further increased during hot and dry periods. Additionally, the city is situated near the Agua Fria River, which can pose a flood risk during heavy rainfall events.
Surprise is not in a high-risk zone for hurricanes or tsunamis due to its inland location in Arizona. However, the region is susceptible to severe thunderstorms with lightning strikes, which can pose a risk for wildfires and property damage. The city is also located near the Lower Gila and Agua Fria hydrologic units, which could lead to flash floods in the area during intense rain events. These geological features increase the overall hazard risk for Surprise, Arizona.
While the city is not located near fault lines or coastlines, its proximity to mountain peaks in the region can contribute to increased wildfire risk. The combination of dry climate, low precipitation levels, and mountainous terrain creates conditions conducive to wildfires. It is essential for residents in Surprise to be prepared for natural disasters, such as wildfires and floods, by having evacuation plans in place and staying informed about weather conditions.
Wildfire Risk: Moderate
Tornado Risk: Moderate
Hurricane Risk: Very Low
Hail Risk: Low
Flood Risk: Low
Tsunami Risk: Very Low
Earthquake Risk: Very Low
Wind Risk: Very High
HAZARDS
10
Power Transmission Lines
0
Coastlines
0
Water Bodies
0
Fault Lines
EMERGENCY SERVICES
2
Hazard Shelters
4
Fire Stations
4
Hospitals
1
Police Stations
COMMUNITY PROFILE
Maricopa, Arizona faces a relatively high risk of natural disasters and climate-related hazards, with a risk rating of 97.33. The area is prone to events such as hailstorms, high winds, thunderstorms, and flooding. The high frequency of these events, along with the significant economic value of property and agriculture in the county, contributes to the elevated risk level. The topography of Maricopa County, with its varied terrain including mountain ranges and water bodies, can exacerbate the impact of these hazards.
Specifically, the county's location in a desert climate brings about challenges such as flash floods during monsoon season, which can cause significant damage to infrastructure and property. The presence of fault lines, including the San Andreas Fault and the Wasatch Fault, increases the risk of earthquakes in the region. Additionally, the proximity of Maricopa County to the Gulf of California and the Pacific Ocean heightens the risk of tropical ...
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CLIMATE OVERVIEW
NATURAL CATASTROPHE TIMELINE
Hailstorm
2018-08-02
Hailstorm
2018-08-02
Flooding
Torrential Rain
2015-07-17