Natural Disasters

The USA is subject to a wide range of natural disasters due to its geographical diversity. As a traveler, the risk is low, but you should know the basics:

Hurricanes

Season: June to November (peak August–October). Affected: Atlantic coast (especially Florida, Gulf Coast, Carolinas). Modern early warning systems provide days of notice. If a hurricane is announced during your trip: Follow evacuation instructions! Flights are often canceled days in advance.

Tornadoes

The "Tornado Alley" (Kansas, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Texas) experiences over 1,000 tornadoes annually, mainly from March to June. Tornadoes are unpredictable but short-lived. If a tornado warning is issued: Immediately go to the basement or an interior room on the ground floor (bathroom without windows). In hotels: Follow staff instructions.

Earthquakes

Affected: primarily California (San Andreas Fault), Alaska, and the Pacific Northwest. Most quakes are harmless. In a strong quake: "Drop, Cover, Hold On" — drop to the ground, get under a sturdy table, and hold on.

Wildfires

Affected: West Coast (California, Oregon, Washington), especially from June to November. In recent years, fires have increased in frequency and intensity. Smoke can affect air quality in distant cities. Check airnow.gov for current air quality levels.

Flash Floods

In the Southwest, dry canyons (slot canyons, washes) can be flooded by deadly torrents within minutes after rain — even if it doesn't rain at the location but 50 km away. In Antelope Canyon, Zion Narrows, and other slot canyons: Always check the weather forecast and follow ranger instructions.