Simulation Shows Tsunami Waves as High as Feet Could Hit Seattle in Minutes

A new simulation conducted by the University of Washington has revealed that Seattle could face tsunami waves as high as several feet within minutes of an earthquake.

The study, which was published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, demonstrated that a magnitude 9.0 earthquake in the Cascadia Subduction Zone could generate tsunami waves up to 8 feet high in Seattle in just 15 minutes.

The simulation utilized the latest technology to assess tsunami risks for the Pacific Northwest region, and it revealed that Seattle is one of the cities most at risk for a tsunami following an earthquake. Areas along the Washington coast were also identified as being at high risk.

“This study provides important information for emergency planners and decision-makers to prepare for a catastrophic event including a tsunami in the Seattle area and for coastal and ocean communities to better understand and prepare for the risks associated with Cascadia earthquakes,” said Jody Bourgeois, a professor of Earth and Space Sciences at the University of Washington and co-author of the study.

Although experts have predicted that a major earthquake will hit the Pacific Northwest at some point in the future, it is impossible to predict when that will happen. However, the new simulation highlights the urgency for Seattle and other areas at risk to have emergency preparedness plans in place.

Emergency Preparedness Plans in Seattle

Seattle officials have already ramped up their efforts to prepare for potential natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis. The city encourages residents to have an emergency kit ready and to make a family plan in case of a disaster.

Residents should also be aware of evacuation routes in their neighborhoods and should familiarize themselves with the city’s natural hazard plan.

“We encourage everyone to take steps to prepare for all hazards, including tsunamis, which includes having a plan, signing up for alerts and warnings, and knowing your evacuation route,” commented Barb Graff, director of the Seattle Office of Emergency Management.

It is essential for residents of Seattle and other areas at risk for tsunamis to take these warnings seriously and to be prepared in case of a natural disaster. With the threat of a major earthquake looming, it is better to be safe than sorry.