Bakersfield, CA 93301
Environmental Risk Assessment • Population: 403,455
Risk Factor Breakdown
Air Quality
Everyone may begin to experience health effects. Sensitive groups may experience more serious effects.
Water Quality
Flood Risk
This area faces significant flood risk. Flood insurance is strongly recommended. Have an evacuation plan ready.
Toxic Sites
Very few hazardous waste sites in this area. This is a positive indicator for local environmental health.
Environmental Profile: Bakersfield, California
Bakersfield, California has unhealthy air quality with an AQI of 151. Water quality scores 41/100 with 74 health-based violations recorded. The area has 0 toxic release inventory sites. Flood risk is very high based on FEMA disaster history.
What This Means For You
Bakersfield has received an overall environmental risk score of 75/100 (Very Poor). This means that the area faces serious environmental challenges that may significantly impact health and quality of life for residents.
The air quality in Bakersfield is rated Unhealthy with an AQI of 151, primarily driven by PM2.5 pollution. Water quality scores 41 out of 100, with 74 reported violations and detected contaminants including PFAS, Chromium-6, Nitrate.
Flood risk is classified as Very High (AE - Coastal High-Risk Flood Zone), and there are 0 Superfund sites and 0 Toxics Release Inventory facilities in the area.
How to Protect Yourself in Bakersfield
- ✓Monitor air quality daily via AirNow.gov. AQI levels in Bakersfield frequently reach unhealthy ranges.
- ✓Use a HEPA air purifier indoors, especially during high-pollution days.
- ✓Limit strenuous outdoor exercise when AQI exceeds 100.
- ✓Consider installing of a certified water filter. Bakersfield water has had 74 violations.
- ✓Have your tap water independently tested, especially for lead if your home has older plumbing.
- ✓Read the annual Consumer Confidence Report from your water utility.
- ✓Purchase flood insurance even if not required — standard homeowner insurance does not cover floods.
- ✓Create an emergency evacuation plan with designated meeting points and essential documents in a go-bag.
- ✓Check your specific property flood zone at msc.fema.gov — Bakersfield is in AE - Coastal High-Risk Flood Zone.
Other Cities in California
Disclaimer: Environmental risk data is compiled from public U.S. government sources (EPA, FEMA) for informational purposes only. Risk scores are estimates and should not replace professional environmental assessments, real estate evaluations, or health consultations. Always consult local authorities and certified professionals for site-specific evaluations. For environmental emergencies, call 911 or the EPA National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802. See our Terms of Service for more details.