High Risk California  ·  Wildfire / Flooding

Nevada County CA

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

7/ 10
Threat Score
Population
103,132
Area
958
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Wildfire / Flooding
FEMA Disasters
36
federally declared

Nevada County in the Sierra Nevada foothills has extreme wildfire risk driven by dense pine and oak woodland vegetation, hot dry summers, and limited evacuation routes through its mountainous terrain. The county's single main highway corridors create dangerous bottlenecks during fire evacuations. The Jones Fire in 2020 threatened Nevada City and Grass Valley.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 7 / 10    High Risk
Primary Hazard Wildfire / Flooding
Secondary Hazard Earthquake
FEMA Flood Zone Zone X (Moderate Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 36
Last Major Event Jones Fire (2020)
Event Frequency Major event every 4–5 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (530) 265-1222
Emergency Shelters 10 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes SR-49 South, I-80 West, SR-20 West, SR-174 South

// County Profile

County Nevada County CA
State California (CA)
Population 103,132
Area 958 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone X (Moderate Risk)

// Other California Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

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Donner Pass Rail Corridor CA
Rail Infrastructure  ·  Truckee, CA  ·  Union Pacific Railroad  ·  5-mi risk zone
7/10 High

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.