Natural Disaster Risk in Port Townsend

Natural Hazard Profile: Port Townsend, Washington

Located in the Pacific Northwest in Jefferson County, Port Townsend is a city of approximately 17,304 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 Port Townsend a community where hazard awareness has real practical value.

Port Townsend's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.6/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Coastal tsunami exposure is the dominant hazard concern, with the regional tectonic environment capable of generating both local and distant-source tsunami waves. Secondary hazards include earthquake and landslide.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Port Townsend 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.