A northeastern U.S. state, New Hampshire has a disaster threat profile that encompasses hurricanes, floods, and winter storms. The Granite State ranks among the top 25 states for natural disaster risks, with an average of six significant weather-related events each year. Notable examples include the 1938 New England Hurricane, which caused substantial property damage, and the flood of 2005, resulting in significant economic losses.
The economic impact of these natural disasters in New Hampshire is considerable. According to a study by the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), between 1980 and 2023, the total cost of weather-related disasters in New Hampshire exceeded $1 billion. In terms of lives lost, the NCEI data indicates that these disasters have claimed over 100 lives in the state during the same period.
Effective planning, timely warnings, and robust infrastructure can significantly mitigate the impact of these disasters, preserving both economic stability and human lives. Understanding the state's disaster threat profile and the economic and human toll of these events underscores the importance of preparedness.