Natural Disaster Risk in Metaline Falls

Natural Hazard Profile: Metaline Falls, Washington

Located in the Pacific Northwest in Pend Oreille County, Metaline Falls is a small unincorporated community. 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 Metaline Falls a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

FEMA rates Metaline Falls's composite natural disaster risk at 4.6 out of 10 — moderate risk. Landslide and debris flow risk tops the local hazard profile, with steep terrain and periodic heavy rainfall creating conditions for rapid slope failure in vulnerable areas. Residents should also account for avalanche and wildfire risk in their preparedness planning.

Relative to other U.S. communities, Metaline Falls's natural disaster risk is near the U.S. national average of 4.5/10, slightly below the 5.8/10 state average. The hazard distribution here is led by landslide and avalanche, as measured by FEMA across Pend Oreille County. While city-specific sub-county variation exists, these scores represent the best available federal risk estimate.

With a moderate risk rating, Metaline Falls 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 landslide is recommended.