Major Flood and Tsunami Threats Loom Over Pacific Northwest, New Study Warns

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A recent study from Virginia Tech highlights significant flooding and tsunami risks for parts of the Pacific Northwest, specifically Northern California, Oregon, and Washington. Researchers indicate that geological factors, such as potential earthquakes in the Cascadia subduction zone, combined with rising sea levels could result in coastal areas sinking by up to 2 meters. This shift would increase the flood risk area from 35 square miles to 116 square miles, affecting thousands of residents and numerous properties.

The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, emphasizes that current tsunami inundation maps do not account for anticipated sea-level rise and the amplified effects of future tsunamis. Researchers created models simulating earthquakes occurring today and in 75 years, projecting that a quake today could impact an additional 14,350 residents and 22,500 structures.

With a 15% likelihood of a major earthquake in the region within the next 50 years, the researchers advocate for proactive community preparations to mitigate potential hazards and protect coastal ecosystems from irreversible damage.

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