Natural Disaster Risk in Port Angeles

Natural Hazard Profile: Port Angeles, Washington

Port Angeles, in Clallam County, is a city of approximately 24,313 residents 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 Port Angeles residents and property owners must navigate.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Port Angeles 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 coastal flood.

Within Washington, Port Angeles'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 Clallam County identifies tsunami as the foremost hazard, followed by earthquake and coastal flood. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

Port Angeles's moderate risk profile means that while catastrophic events are less frequent, they do occur. Standard homeowners insurance typically covers many common hazards here, but confirming that tsunami exposure is adequately protected is a worthwhile step for property owners.