Landslides affect all 50 states and U.S. territories, though mountainous regions such as the Pacific Coast range, the Rockies, the Appalachians, Alaska, and Hawaii bear the most severe risk. The U.S. Geological Survey estimates that each year in the United States, landslides cause the deaths of 25 to 50 people and losses of at least $1 billion.[2]
Flooding is the most common, and costliest, natural hazard facing the United States. The National Weather Service published reports on flood damages and deaths until 2014. From 1984 to 2014 floods caused an average of $8 billion in damages and 82 deaths per year nationwide.[1]
Extreme drought is part of natural climatic cycles around the world. Historic records and prehistoric reconstructions extending back 1000 years document that extreme droughts have occurred repeatedly in North America, sometimes for longer periods than even the most severe droughts of the 20th century.[1] Research on climate variability is addressing how drought may impact the United States in the future.
The United States has used nuclear power since the mid-20th century. Nuclear energy makes up around 20% of U.S. electricity supply. There are currently 98 commercial nuclear reactors operating at 60 nuclear power plants in thirty states.[1][2]
In 2017, only 0.4% of U.S. electricity came from geothermal energy sources,[3] but the U.S. Geological Survey estimates that geothermal energy could generate more than 10% of the nation’s electricity.[4] While geothermal has historically been limited to western states with shallow hot water reservoirs, enhanced geothermal systems may make it possible to extract geothermal energy from hot, dry rocks throughout the country.
The United States has more estimated recoverable coal reserves than any other nation except China and is a net exporter of coal. In 2017, coal provided 30% of the electricity consumed across the country, and 93% of coal consumed in the United States was used to generate electricity.[3]
