Detroit, MI 48201
Environmental Risk Assessment • Population: 639,111
Risk Factor Breakdown
Air Quality
Air quality is acceptable, but some pollutants may be of concern for sensitive individuals.
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: Detroit, Michigan
Detroit, Michigan has moderate air quality with an AQI of 64. Water quality scores 42/100 with 2001 health-based violations recorded. The area has 0 toxic release inventory sites. Flood risk is high based on FEMA disaster history.
What This Means For You
Detroit has received an overall environmental risk score of 52/100 (Fair). This means that the area has significant environmental challenges that can affect residents' health and quality of life.
The air quality in Detroit is rated Moderate with an AQI of 64, primarily driven by SO2 pollution. Water quality scores 42 out of 100, with 2001 reported violations and detected contaminants including Lead, PFAS.
Flood risk is classified as High (AE - 100-Year Floodplain), and there are 0 Superfund sites and 0 Toxics Release Inventory facilities in the area.
How to Protect Yourself in Detroit
- ✓Air quality is generally acceptable, but monitor AirNow.gov during seasonal events like wildfires or heat waves.
- ✓Consider installing of a certified water filter. Detroit water has had 2001 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 — Detroit is in AE - 100-Year Floodplain.
- ✓Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking to flush potential lead from pipes.
- ✓Get children tested for lead exposure — there is no safe level of lead in blood.
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.