Provo, Utah

16 Land Tracts in Utah County , Provo Watershed

Provo, Utah faces relatively high natural disaster and climate risks due to its location within the Great Basin region, which is characterized by low precipitation levels and high temperatures. The area is prone to wildfires, with a higher risk rating, as evidenced by historical events such as the 2018 Pole Creek and Bald Mountain Fires which burned thousands of acres in the nearby Uinta National Forest. The proximity to the Great Salt Lake and Jordan River also poses a risk of flooding during heavy rainfall events.

Additionally, Provo is situated near the Wasatch Fault, a significant geological feature that increases the risk of earthquakes. The city's location at the base of the Wasatch Range exposes it to the potential hazards of landslides and rockfalls, especially during periods of intense precipitation. The region's topography, with mountain peaks and valleys, can exacerbate the impact of extreme weather events such as snowstorms and flash floods, as seen in the 2019 floods that affected parts of Utah County.

Overall, Provo's natural disaster and climate risk assessment is influenced by a combination of factors including its climate conditions, proximity to fault lines, mountainous terrain, and water bodies. The city's history of wildfires, floods, and geological hazards underscores the need for proactive disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies to safeguard its population of over 65,000 residents.