Natural Disaster Risk
Waltham, MA
2026 Risk Report · FEMA · NOAA · USGS
Risk Score Overview— Waltham
🌊 Flood Risk — Waltham
Waltham has a flood risk score of 48/100, classified as Moderate. This score is derived from FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims data, flood zone designations, and NOAA precipitation records.
🌪️ Tornado Risk — Waltham
Tornado risk score: 20/100 — Very Low. Based on NOAA Storm Events Database historical tornado tracks and frequency data.
⚡ Earthquake Risk — Waltham
Earthquake risk score: 18/100 — Very Low. Based on USGS National Seismic Hazard Model and historical seismic event data for this region.
🔥 Wildfire Risk — Waltham
Wildfire risk score: 8/100 — Very Low. Based on USDA Forest Service wildfire risk data and historical fire perimeter records.
🌀 Hurricane Risk — Waltham
Hurricane risk score: 42/100 — Moderate. Based on NOAA historical hurricane track data, coastal storm surge modeling, and landfall frequency.
💰 What This Means for Home Insurance in Waltham
Standard homeowners policies do not cover flood damage. Properties in FEMA flood zones may be required to purchase NFIP coverage. Flood insurance is strongly recommended in this area.
Earthquake damage is excluded from standard homeowners policies. A separate earthquake rider or policy is required.
Homeowners insurance typically covers wind and fire damage, but high-risk areas may see coverage restrictions or surcharges. Review your policy limits.
📍 Nearby Cities in Massachusetts
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Waltham
Is Waltham in a flood zone?
Waltham has a flood risk score of 48/100, classified as Moderate. Check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center for specific parcel-level flood zone designations.
Does Waltham get tornadoes?
Waltham has a tornado risk score of 20/100. Tornadoes are rare in this area.
What is the earthquake risk in Waltham?
Waltham has an earthquake risk score of 18/100 (Very Low), based on USGS seismic hazard assessments and historical earthquake data.
Is Waltham at risk for wildfires?
Waltham's wildfire risk score is 8/100 (Very Low), reflecting proximity to wildland-urban interface areas and historical fire perimeter data.
How does natural disaster risk affect home insurance in Waltham?
Areas with higher risk scores typically see higher home insurance premiums. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover floods — a separate NFIP or private flood policy is required. Earthquake damage also requires a separate rider or policy. Check with a local insurance agent for coverage recommendations specific to Waltham.