Riverside, CA 92501
Environmental Risk Assessment • Population: 314,998
Risk Factor Breakdown
Air Quality
Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. General public is less likely to be affected.
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: Riverside, California
Riverside, California has unhealthy for sensitive groups air quality with an AQI of 107. Water quality scores 39/100 with 57 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
Riverside has received an overall environmental risk score of 67/100 (Poor). This means that the area has significant environmental challenges that can affect residents' health and quality of life.
The air quality in Riverside is rated Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups with an AQI of 107, primarily driven by PM2.5 pollution. Water quality scores 39 out of 100, with 57 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 Riverside
- ✓Monitor air quality daily via AirNow.gov. AQI levels in Riverside 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. Riverside water has had 57 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 — Riverside 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.