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New Jersey · Risk Readiness
Before the emergency — maps, tools, and the honest picture of what New Jersey throws at different parts of the state.
See NJ hazardsNJ hazard profile
Superstorm Sandy (October 2012) made landfall near Atlantic City as a post-tropical cyclone, destroyed the Jersey Shore, flooded Hoboken with 8 feet of water, killed 37 New Jerseyans, and caused $37B in damage. NJ's entire coastline — from Sandy Hook to Cape May — is storm surge exposure. The barrier islands face existential risk in a major direct hit. NJ's Atlantic coast faces nor'easters year-round. The March 2018 nor'easter series produced three major storms in two weeks. Coastal flooding from nor'easters is increasingly frequent as sea levels rise — tidal flooding in Tuckerton, Sea Isle City, and Wildwood now occurs without storms. Cape May County has some of the fastest sea level rise on the East Coast. The Passaic, Raritan, and Delaware rivers flood regularly. The Passaic River basin — covering much of northern NJ — has flooded catastrophically after every major tropical system. Irene (2011) caused $1B+ in damage in NJ alone. The Raritan River flooded New Brunswick multiple times in recent years. Urban flooding across the northeastern NJ corridor is a recurring problem.
Direct landfalls and tropical moisture bring catastrophic wind, surge, and inland flooding.
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Flash floods, river flooding, and coastal surge affect low-lying areas and river corridors.
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Damaging winds, hail, and lightning — the most frequent hazard in most US states.
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Extreme heat events endanger vulnerable residents and stress power infrastructure.
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Official tools
Enter your address to see your flood zone designation and insurance requirements.
Source: FEMA
Real-time earthquake activity and seismic hazard maps for your region.
Source: USGS
Your property's wildfire exposure score based on vegetation, terrain, and proximity to wildland.
Source: USFS
Real-time river levels and flood stage by county.
Source: USGS WaterWatch
Weekly drought conditions by county.
Source: US Drought Monitor
Water quality guidance for households on private wells.
Source: EPA
Insurance gaps
Standard homeowner's policies in New Jersey exclude flood damage. Flood insurance through the NFIP has a 30-day waiting period — it cannot be purchased when a storm is forecast. Check your declarations page annually to confirm your coverage limits and deductibles.
Not in your standard policy
Flood damage — requires NFIP or private flood policy
Earthquake damage — requires separate endorsement
Sewer & drain backup — requires endorsement ($50–$100/yr)
Landslide / mudflow — generally excluded
Next steps
During an emergency
NC emergency contacts, alert signups, and real-time information.
Local EmergencyGet prepared
Step-by-step actions based on the hazards that apply to New Jersey.
NJ Checklists