New maps released by the state show a tsunami generated by a magnitude 9 earthquake on the Cascadia Subduction Zone would take 1.5 hours to reach the Anacortes and Bellingham areas.
The maps, shared this week by the Washington Department of Natural Resources' Geological Survey team, use new models to simulate a magnitude 9 earthquake - an event, geologists predict, that happens every 2,500 years along the fault.
The first waves of the tsunami triggered by the quake would be 18 feet tall and hit the Anacortes/Bellingham area at a speed of more than 20 knots. Waves from the tsunami would last for more than eight hours.
DNR released the new data to help local officials prepare evacuation plans and worst-case scenarios if and when such an event happens.
“Earthquakes and tsunamis are very real threats that we must be proactive in preparing for,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz. “That’s why DNR’s team of highly-trained geologists works each day to ensure our communities have the information they need to prepare and be safe.”
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