Bellingham Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 128,737 and a calculated risk score of 86.5, Bellingham faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Bellingham, WA. Calling Bellingham home means understanding its environment. While often overlooked, the local hazard data is clear. The numbers show a clear susceptibility to earthquakes.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Bellingham a Risk Score of 86.461 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Earthquake and Landslide.
Earthquake risk in Bellingham, Washington
Bellingham's location near active fault lines makes earthquake preparedness critical for all residents. While seismic retrofitting has improved infrastructure, the potential for a significant magnitude event remains a primary hazard concern for the region.
Bellingham Earthquake Safety
- •Secure heavy furniture and water heaters to wall studs
- •Create a family communication plan for when cell towers fail
- •Keep sturdy shoes and a flashlight tied to your bedframe
Top Hazards for The Bellingham Area
For residents of Washington, it is well known that local patterns show a recurring trend of earthquake activity. Moreover statistical analysis places this risk level at 97.8/100, requiring attention. Having an out-of-area contact is crucial when local communication lines inevitably fail.
Environmental studies focusing on Washington highlight that the area's infrastructure faces consistent tests from landslide events. Additionally, federal hazard layers combined with local topography result in this 96.6 score. Emergency kits must include shoes and gloves to navigate debris after an event.
Considering the historical weather trends in Washington, data indicates that Bellingham has a higher-than-average exposure to volcanoes. It is important to note that this metric (score: 86.5) aligns with federal disaster declarations for the county. The lack of warning time means your immediate environment must be safe by default.
Monitor Active Threats
Bellingham has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Bellingham? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Bellingham
Read the Full Guide →In Bellingham, warning times are minimal. The ground can shift without notice, making immediate physical safety your priority. Your home environment needs to be 'quake-proofed' long before the shaking starts.
Critical Action Checklist
- 1Store breakable items in low, latched cabinets.
- 2Secure heavy furniture and appliances to the walls.
- 3Identify safe spots (under sturdy tables) in each room.
- 4Keep a pair of sturdy shoes and a flashlight tied to your bedframe.
- 5Know how to shut off your gas line manually and have the tool nearby.
Essential Gear for Bellingham
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Power
Petzl Actik Core Headlamp
600 lumens and rechargeable. Hands-free lighting is critical during power outages.
Your safety depends on your readiness. Start building your emergency kit for Earthquake now.
View Complete Gear Checklist →Compare Nearby Cities
| City | Risk Score | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| Seattle | 99.5 | When compared to Seattle, Bellingham is statistically safer. The difference of 13.0 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Spokane | 73.7 | When compared to Spokane, Bellingham is slightly higher risk. The difference of 12.7 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Kennewick | 82.2 | Kennewick and Bellingham share similar regional risks, but our data gives Kennewick the edge in overall safety. |
| Bremerton | 91.7 | Bremerton and Bellingham share similar regional risks, but our data gives Bellingham the edge in overall safety. |
| Tacoma | 97.9 | Tacoma and Bellingham share similar regional risks, but our data gives Bellingham the edge in overall safety. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Earthquakes in Bellingham?
With a risk score of 97.8 for Earthquake, Bellingham is considered highly vulnerable. Residents should have a specific plan for Earthquake events, which are the primary driver of the city's overall risk profile.
Is Bellingham safer than other cities in Washington?
It varies by hazard. While Bellingham has its own risk profile (Total Score: 86.5), it is generally comparable to the average in Washington. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Bellingham given the risk of Landslide?
Every city has risks. The threat of Landslide (Score: 96.6) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Bellingham is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Bellingham compare to other cities in Washington?
See the full Washington Disaster Rankings to see how Bellingham stacks up against other cities in the state.