Natural Disaster Risk — ZIP Code 98102

Natural Hazard Profile: ZIP 98102, Washington

ZIP 98102 in Seattle sits in the Pacific Northwest. Its oceanic climate produces mild, rainy winters west of the Cascades and semi-arid conditions to the east, and notably a critical wildfire period in eastern Washington each summer. These conditions define the natural disaster environment for households across this ZIP code.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, ZIP 98102 carries an overall risk score of 7.2/10, placing it in the high category. Avalanche risk is the dominant natural hazard, with steep mountain terrain and heavy seasonal snowpack creating conditions for dangerous snow slides in and around the area. The area also faces notable exposure to earthquake and volcano.

Within Washington, ZIP 98102's risk is, slightly above the 5.8/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Washington identifies avalanche as the foremost hazard, followed by earthquake and volcano. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, ZIP 98102 residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for avalanche and secondary hazards, registering for emergency alerts, and maintaining a household emergency kit are practical steps that can significantly reduce impact during a major event.