The Emergency Management Department assesses hazards utilizing the Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (THIRA) process which helps communities identify hazards and resource requirements necessary to address anticipated and unanticipated risks. By understanding the communities’ risks, a community can make smart decisions about how to manage risk, including developing safety plans. Some of the most probable hazards in the City of North Las Vegas area:

Earthquakes

Did you know there are roughly 1,500 faults in the State of Nevada making it the third most seismically active region in the country? Though it may sound alarming, there is a very small probability of a major disaster occurring, but there are some things you can do to plan, prepare and respond to keep fears at bay: 

Before: 

• Make an emergency plan 
• Set up a meeting place for your family
• Make an emergency stockpile and a first-aid kit 

During: 

• Pull over and stop if you are in a vehicle
• If you're outdoors, stay outdoors and away from buildings 
• If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways 
• Take cover! 

After: 

• Expect aftershocks, be ready to drop, cover, and hold on 
• If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building 
• If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall 

Find more preparedness information at: https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes 

For Nevada Earthquake information, visit: https://gisweb.unr.edu/MyHAZARDS

Flash Floods

Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Failing to evacuate flooded areas or entering flood waters can lead to injury or death. Floods may develop slowly or quickly and can come with no warning. The impact of floods can cause outages, disrupt transportation, damage buildings and in certain areas, create landslides. Here are some tips to follow before, during and after a flood in your area: 

Before: 

During: 

After: 

Find more preparedness information at: https://www.ready.gov/floods 

For Nevada Flooding information, visit: https://gustfront.ccrfcd.org/gagemap/gagemap.html

Thunderstorms and Lightning

Thunderstorms are common, especially during the summer months and can be very dangerous. They can bring intense wind, flash flooding, hail and dangerous lightning. Here are some tips you can follow before, during, and after a thunderstorm in your area: 

Before: 

• Know your risks by signing up for community warning systems 
• Make an emergency plan and locate the sturdiest part of your home to take shelter 
• Strengthen your home by cutting or trimming trees that may be in danger of falling on your home, purchase surge protectors and grounding rods 

During: 

• When thunder roars, go indoors!
• Pay attention to alerts and warnings
• Avoid using electronic devices connected to an electrical outlet
• Avoid running water 

After: 

• Pay attention to authorities and weather forecasts for information and potential flash flooding associated with the storm 
• Watch for fallen power lines and trees. 
• Report them immediately! 

Find more preparedness information at: https://www.ready.gov/thunderstorms-lightning 

For thunderstorm safety information visit: https://www.weather.gov/safety/thunderstorm

Drought

Droughts are sometimes beyond the control of citizens or local agencies but there are some ways to prepare and conserve water such as: 

• Fix dripping faucets by replacing washers, one drop per second wastes 2,700 gallons of water a year Choose appliances that are more energy and water efficient 
• Plant native and/or drought-tolerant grasses, shrubs and trees to lower watering needs 
• Avoid letting the water run while brushing your teeth, washing your face or shaving 

Find more preparedness information at: https://www.ready.gov/drought 

For local drought information, visit: https://www.drought.gov/states/Nevada/county/Clark

Extreme Heat

Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death. Extreme heat is responsible for the highest number of annual deaths among all weather-related hazards. Older adults, children and sick or overweight individuals are at a greater risk from extreme heat. Here's what you can do to prepare for extreme heat:

• Learn to recognize the signs of heat illness
• Identify places in your community where you can go to get cool 
• Weather-strip doors and windows 
• Install window air conditioners and insulate around them 

If you are unable to afford your cooling costs, weatherization or energy-related home repairs, visit the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) site or visit the Nevada Division of Welfare and Supportive Services page for more information.

To keep safe during extreme heat, consider these guidelines: 

• Never leave people or pets in a closed car on a warm day 
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing 
• If you're outside, find shade 
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated 
• Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors, during midday heat, if possible 
• Consider pet safety; if they are outside, make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade. Asphalt and dark pavement can be very hot to your pet's paws. 

Find more preparedness information at: https://www.ready.gov/heat 

For local extreme heat information visit: https://www.wrh.noaa.gov/wrh/heatrisk

Hazard Resources

The City of North Las Vegas Emergency Management Department firmly believes that "An informed community is a resilient community" and provides open-source resources in a centralized location for the residents to plan and prepare for all disasters. For all hazard resources, please see the list below and utilize the links for your convenience.

Power Outage Maps

Other Resources