Natural Disaster Risk in Brinnon

Natural Hazard Profile: Brinnon, Washington

Brinnon, in Jefferson County, is a small community of about 1,219 situated in the Pacific Northwest. Its oceanic climate brings mild, rainy winters west of the Cascades and semi-arid conditions to the east, and in particular a critical wildfire period in eastern Washington each summer. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Brinnon residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Brinnon carries an overall risk score of 5.6/10, placing it in the moderate category. Tsunami risk is the primary coastal hazard, driven by the area's proximity to seismically active offshore zones capable of generating ocean waves that inundate low-lying coastlines. The area also faces notable exposure to earthquake and landslide.

Within Washington, Brinnon's risk is, near the 5.8/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Jefferson County identifies tsunami as the foremost hazard, followed by earthquake and landslide. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Brinnon residents are well-served by maintaining standard preparedness practices — an emergency supply kit, awareness of local hazard seasonality, and insurance that covers the top local risks. Periodic review of coverage for tsunami is recommended.