County Data
Berkshire County, Massachusetts
Self-reliance and preparedness data for Berkshire County
Relatively Low
Hazard Risk (9.3/100)
Moderate
Solar (3.7 kWh/m²/day)
Natural Hazard Risks in Berkshire County
| Hazard | Risk Rating | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Cold Wave | Relatively Moderate | 19.5 |
| Ice Storm | Relatively Moderate | 18.2 |
| Lightning | Relatively Moderate | 16.8 |
| Tornado | Relatively Moderate | 16.7 |
| Landslide | Relatively Moderate | 14.6 |
Source: FEMA National Risk Index. Scores 0–100, higher = more risk.
Climate Profile
Temperature & Growing Season
| January Avg | 18°F |
Water & Energy
| Annual Precipitation | 9.3″ |
| Solar Potential | 3.7 kWh/m²/day |
| Wind Speed | 0.2 m/s |
| Soil Type | Sandy Loam |
Local Species
72
Edible species
34
Medicinal species
49
Autonomy Score
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the biggest natural hazards in Berkshire County, Massachusetts?
- Berkshire County has an overall hazard rating of Relatively Low based on FEMA National Risk Index data. The top threats are Cold Wave, Ice Storm, Lightning. Each hazard is scored 0–100 by likelihood and expected impact.
- Is Berkshire County good for solar power?
- Berkshire County has a moderate solar rating. Solar potential is based on average daily irradiance (kWh/m²/day), which determines how much energy rooftop or ground-mounted panels can produce year-round.
- How many edible plants grow in Berkshire County?
- Our database identifies 72 edible plant species in Berkshire County based on regional flora data, USDA hardiness zone, and iNaturalist observations. The full field guide includes identification notes, preparation methods, and seasonal availability.
- What is the autonomy score for Berkshire County?
- Berkshire County has an autonomy score of 49. This composite score measures local self-reliance potential across water access, food production capacity, energy resources, and supply chain resilience. Higher scores indicate greater potential for self-sufficiency.