Natural Disaster Risk in Nordland

Natural Hazard Profile: Nordland, Washington

Nordland is a small community of about 1,164 in Jefferson County, in the Pacific Northwest. The area experiences mild, rainy winters west of the Cascades and semi-arid conditions to the east, with a critical wildfire period in eastern Washington each summer shaping the pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Nordland.

FEMA rates Nordland's composite natural disaster risk at 5.6 out of 10 — moderate risk. The threat of tsunami inundation tops the local coastal risk profile, requiring residents in low-lying areas to maintain awareness of evacuation routes and warning systems. Residents should also account for earthquake and landslide risk in their preparedness planning.

Nordland's risk score, near the 5.8/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Jefferson County, the highest-scoring are tsunami, earthquake, and landslide. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a moderate risk rating, Nordland 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.