Natural Disaster Risk in Tokeland

Natural Hazard Profile: Tokeland, Washington

Tokeland is a small community of about 509 in Pacific 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 Tokeland.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, Tokeland carries an overall risk score of 4.9/10, placing it in the moderate category. Coastal tsunami exposure is the dominant hazard concern, with the regional tectonic environment capable of generating both local and distant-source tsunami waves. The area also faces notable exposure to coastal flood and earthquake.

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

With a moderate risk rating, Tokeland 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.