Natural Disaster Risk in Buckley

Natural Hazard Profile: Buckley, Washington

Located in the Pacific Northwest in Pierce County, Buckley is a city of approximately 18,150 residents. The oceanic climate that characterizes this part of Washington — marked by mild, rainy winters west of the Cascades and semi-arid conditions to the east — directly influences the types and severity of natural hazards present, making Buckley a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Buckley's overall natural disaster risk is rated 7.6/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. The threat of avalanche is the primary natural hazard here, with winter snowpack instability on mountain terrain posing risks to roads, structures, and outdoor recreation activities. Secondary hazards include earthquake and volcano.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Buckley's natural disaster risk is well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, considerably above the 5.8/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by avalanche and earthquake, as measured by FEMA across Pierce County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Buckley residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for avalanche and secondary hazards, registering for emergency alerts, and maintaining a household emergency kit are practical steps that can significantly reduce impact during a major event.