The Simulation Shows That Tsunami Waves Of Up To 42 Feet Could Hit Seattle Within Minutes In The Event Of A Major Earthquake On The Seattle Fault

Scientists found that if a magnitude 7.5 earthquake were to occur on the Seattle Fault, tsunami waves over 40 feet high could reach the Seattle area in less than 3 minutes. “Tsunami inundation and strong currents may continue for more than 3 hours from the onset of the earthquake,” according to the press release. The study shows that shoreline flooding and shoreline changes will occur throughout the Seattle area after such a strong earthquake. The last known earthquake on the Seattle fault occurred about 1,100 years ago, the release said. The study “was conducted to help local and state emergency managers and planners develop and improve response and preparedness plans for a tsunami in the middle of Washington’s largest population center and economic hub,” the release said.