Atherton, California

13 Land Tracts in San Mateo County , San Francisco Bay Watershed

Atherton, California, located in San Mateo County, faces relatively high natural disaster and climate risk due to its proximity to the San Francisco Bay, which can contribute to flooding events during heavy precipitation. The area also lies near fault lines, such as the San Andreas Fault, increasing the risk of earthquakes. Additionally, Atherton is surrounded by wooded areas, increasing the likelihood of wildfires, which have historically impacted California due to dry conditions and high temperatures.

The region's climate features relatively moderate temperatures and precipitation levels, creating favorable conditions for wildfire outbreaks. Atherton's location near mountain peaks can exacerbate wildfire risk, as strong winds can quickly spread fires. Atherton also faces a moderate risk of tsunamis due to its proximity to the coastline, adding to the area's overall hazard risk profile.

Despite its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Atherton's vulnerability to various natural disasters highlights the importance of preparedness and resilience measures for residents and local authorities. With a history of wildfires, earthquakes, and flooding events in California, Atherton must prioritize risk mitigation strategies to protect its population and infrastructure from potential disasters.