I've compiled information on the natural disasters and weather anomalies you should know about while living in Boston.

The most concerning natural phenomenon in Boston is the Nor'easter. This is a powerful low-pressure system that develops over the Atlantic and brings storms from the northeast, accompanied by heavy snow and strong winds in winter. Boston is positioned to take the brunt of Nor'easters, with snowfall sometimes reaching 60 to 90 centimeters in a single night.

In the winter of 2015, Boston experienced record-breaking snowfall due to consecutive Nor'easters. At that time, the MBTA subway system was nearly paralyzed. A winter emergency kit, snow removal tools, and vehicle emergency supplies are essential.

Hurricanes and tropical storms can also occasionally have an impact. During the Atlantic hurricane season (June to November), if a hurricane moves northward toward New England, Boston falls within its range. While direct landfalls are rare, hurricanes can pass through in weakened forms as tropical storms or post-tropical storms, bringing heavy rain and wind. The 1938 New England hurricane is recorded as having caused the most significant damage in history.

Flooding is another concern. Boston is a coastal city, and the threats of rising sea levels and storm surges due to climate change are becoming increasingly real. Low-lying areas near the Charles River estuary and Boston Harbor are at risk of flooding during heavy rain or storms. The city is working on installing flood barriers and strengthening infrastructure to respond to climate change.

Earthquakes are rare in Boston, but the city is not completely safe. New England is not known for significant seismic activity, but small earthquakes do occur intermittently.

Massachusetts is classified as a low to moderate risk area for earthquakes, but some parts of Boston are built on landfill, which poses a liquefaction risk during an earthquake. Basic preparedness, such as having emergency supplies, emergency contacts, and the FEMA app installed, is necessary no matter where you live.