9
Extreme
High Wind Risk in Washington, DC
Risk Level: Extreme — Score 9/10
FEMA: 9Historical: 10
Key Risk Factors
- FEMA rates Washington's county as Very High risk for this hazard
- Estimated annual loss of $6M from this hazard type
- 22 events recorded in proximity in recent decades
- 21 events in the last 12 months indicate ongoing risk
- Average annual frequency: 7.9 events per year
Last significant event: Gale - Chesapeake Bay _ Maryland tidal rivers, United States (2026-01-11) — 1,390 people exposed
Highest Risk Cities for High Winds
7
Washington, DC
FEMA: 9Historical: 10
How Washington Compares
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Notable High Wind Events Near Washington
Wind - Washington, D.C. metro area, MD _ VA, United States
December 28, 2025 — ADVISORY
8,970,000 people exposed; $2,286,848M capital exposed
Gale - Central Maryland, United States
November 15, 2025 — WARNING
446 people exposed; $1,153M capital exposed
High Winds - Northeastern United States
November 26, 2019 — WARNING
Impact data not available
Gale - Chesapeake Bay _ Maryland tidal rivers, United States
January 10, 2026 — WARNING
1,390 people exposed; $1,281M capital exposed
Gale - Chesapeake Bay region, Maryland, United States
November 15, 2025 — WATCH
1,140 people exposed; $1,207M capital exposed
High Wind Preparedness Tips
- 1.Secure loose outdoor items — patio furniture, trash cans, decorations
- 2.Trim trees and remove dead branches that could fall on structures
- 3.Reinforce garage doors and ensure roof shingles are properly fastened
- 4.Avoid driving high-profile vehicles during high wind warnings
- 5.Stay away from windows during severe wind events
Related Pages
Earthquake Risk in Washington
Score: 7/10
Wildfire Risk in Washington
Score: 1/10
Hurricane Risk in Washington
Score: 7/10
Flood Risk in Washington
Score: 7/10
Tornado Risk in Washington
Score: 7/10
Winter Storm Risk in Washington
Score: 9/10
Landslide Risk in Washington
Score: 3/10
Extreme Heat Risk in Washington
Score: 7/10
Drought Risk in Washington
Score: 0/10
Tsunami Risk in Washington
Score: 0/10
High Wind Risk in Baltimore, MD
Score: 7/10
High Wind Risk in Philadelphia, PA
Score: 7/10
High Wind Risk in Virginia Beach, VA
Score: 1/10
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