Vulnerable communities in Lake County
Select a vulnerable community to learn how they are impacted by climate-driven events, results from the CHARM surveys and interviews, and ways to build resilience in this community.
Seniors
People who are disabled, homebound, or use medical equipment
Mobile home residents
People experiencing homelessness
Outdoor workers
Tribal communities
People with chronic health conditions
People who live, work, or recreate near Clear Lake
People with limited transportation & rural residents
Other vulnerable communities
The year-round population of Lake County is around 68,000 residents, with summertime populations trending higher as temporary vacationers and recreationists visit the County. Despite its appeal as a tourist destination, many permanent residents face economic and demographic challenges that heighten vulnerability to climate-driven events (CDEs) and other emergencies:
- Median household income: $58,738 (vs. California median of $96,334).
- Poverty rate: 17.6% of residents live below the poverty line (vs. 12.0% statewide).
- Elderly population: 24.6% of residents are age 65+ (vs. 16.2% statewide)
- Education: 17.7% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher (vs. 36.5% statewide).
As one local Working Group member noted, Lake County is made up of vulnerable populations- many of whom belong to multiple categories of vulnerability. For example, an individual may be over the age of 65, living with a disability, and lacking reliable transportation.
While local emergency plans address general community needs, we found that the needs of specific vulnerable communities and the threats to those communities can be overlooked. As a result, critical gaps remain in ensuring that the most vulnerable residents receive the support they need when it matters most.