West-Covina, California

20 Land Tracts in Los Angeles County , San Gabriel Watershed

West-Covina, California faces a very high risk of natural disasters and climate-related hazards due to its location in Los Angeles County, which is prone to wildfires, earthquakes, and floods. The city lies near the San Gabriel Fault, a major fault line in Southern California that poses a significant earthquake risk. Additionally, West-Covina is situated near mountain peaks such as the San Gabriel Mountains, which can increase the likelihood of mudslides and flash floods during heavy precipitation events.

The city's proximity to the Pacific coastline also exposes it to potential tsunami threats, although the risk is relatively moderate. West-Covina's climate features relatively high temperatures and low humidity levels, contributing to the area's susceptibility to wildfires during dry seasons. Furthermore, the Ventura-San Gabriel Coastal hydrologic unit brings a potential for increased precipitation levels and flooding, which can impact the city's infrastructure and residents. Overall, the combination of geological features and climate factors heightens the risk of natural disasters in West-Covina.

Past events like the 1987 Whittier Narrows earthquake, which had a magnitude of 5.9 and caused significant damage in the region, serve as a reminder of the seismic activity that West-Covina faces. The city's high population density of over 100,000 residents also increases the vulnerability to natural disasters, requiring proactive planning and preparedness measures. With a very high risk rating for natural disasters, West-Covina must prioritize mitigation efforts and emergency response strategies to safeguard its community and infrastructure from potential hazards.