Study Warns of 20-Foot Tsunami Waves from Alaska Earthquake
Study Warns of 20-Foot Tsunami Waves from Alaska Earthquake
US · Published Aug 14, 2026
A new study by the Washington Geological Survey highlights the potential impact of a magnitude 9.2 earthquake in Alaska, which could generate tsunami waves reaching Washington's coast within 3.5 hours.
Offshore waves near Westport could exceed 20 feet, with flooding up to 10 feet deep along the outer coast, Grays Harbor, and Willapa Bay.

Impact & Risks

The outer coast of Washington, including areas like Westport, Grays Harbor, and Willapa Bay, would face significant flooding and wave activity. Inner waterways such as the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Hood Canal, and San Juan Islands could experience hazardous currents, threatening maritime operations and infrastructure. Mariners and waterfront communities are particularly at risk due to fast-moving currents and prolonged tsunami activity. While the study provides valuable insights, it does not account for localized factors like tides or erosion, limiting its use for site-specific assessments.

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