High Risk California  ·  Flooding / Wildfire

Tulare County CA

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

7/ 10
Threat Score
Population
473,117
Area
4839
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Flooding / Wildfire
FEMA Disasters
38
federally declared

Tulare County experienced a dramatic demonstration of its flood vulnerability in 2023 when atmospheric river storms refilled the historic Tulare Lake dry lakebed for the first time in decades, flooding thousands of acres of farmland and displacing rural communities. Wildfire risk in the Sierra Nevada foothills adds a second major threat dimension.

// 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 Flooding / Wildfire
Secondary Hazard Extreme Heat
FEMA Flood Zone Zone AE (High Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 38
Last Major Event Tulare Lake Flood (2023)
Event Frequency Major event every 4–6 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (559) 624-7000
Emergency Shelters 20 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes SR-99 North, SR-99 South, SR-190 East, SR-65 North

// County Profile

County Tulare County CA
State California (CA)
Population 473,117
Area 4839 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone AE (High Risk)

// Major Cities

Visalia CA

// Cities in This County

// 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.

Naval Air Station Lemoore CA
Military Installation  ·  Lemoore, CA  ·  US Navy  ·  25-mi risk zone
6/10 Moderate

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