Occidental, California

4 Land Tracts in Sonoma County , Bodega Bay Watershed

Occidental, California is located in Sonoma County and is at a relatively high risk for natural disasters such as droughts, wildfires, and floods. The area experiences a moderate amount of precipitation and low temperatures, contributing to a high-risk rating for these types of events. Occidental is situated near the Bodega Bay hydrologic unit, which can impact the area's susceptibility to flooding and water-related hazards.

The region is also close to the Klamath-Northern California Coastal hydrologic subregion and the California hydrologic region, which could further increase the risk of natural disasters. Occidental's proximity to fault lines and mountain peaks heightens the risk of earthquakes and landslides. Additionally, the city's location near the coastline makes it vulnerable to storm surges, coastal erosion, and tsunamis, increasing the overall hazard risk for the area.

Historically, Occidental and its surrounding areas have experienced significant wildfire events due to dry conditions and high temperatures. In 2020, the region was severely impacted by the Walbridge Fire, which burned thousands of acres of land and caused widespread destruction. With a growing population and increasing development in the area, the risk of natural disasters is expected to continue to rise. Overall, Occidental faces a complex and interconnected set of climate and geological factors that contribute to its high hazard risk profile.