Tacoma Disaster Risk Score & Hazard Analysis
With a population of 220,482 and a calculated risk score of 97.9, Tacoma faces unique challenges. This page is a complete hazard risk assessment for Tacoma, WA. Living in Tacoma offers a unique lifestyle. But like any location, it has unique set of risks. The most significant threat to be aware of is earthquakes.
Total Risk Score
Our algorithm assigns Tacoma a Risk Score of 97.943 out of 100. This score is heavily influenced by the high probability of Earthquake and Volcano.
Earthquake risk in Tacoma, Washington
Tacoma'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.
Tacoma 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 Tacoma Area
Across the diverse landscape of Washington, earthquake preparedness is ingrained in the local community culture. Furthermore, the generated risk index of 99.5 is derived from granular local inputs. A 'drop, cover, and hold on' drill should be practiced by every family member annually.
Regional data for Washington suggests that the area is historically prone to periods of volcano. Consequently, the data-driven score of 98.9 underscores the need for preparedness. Families should have a reunification plan for when an event occurs during work/school hours.
Meteorological data for Washington confirms that local planning increasingly focuses on mitigating landslides. In light of this, based on multi-decade trend analysis, we assign an exposure rating of 97.7. Structural retrofitting for older homes can significantly mitigate the danger of landslides.
Monitor Active Threats
Tacoma has identified seismic or wildfire risks. Check our real-time tracker for active events.
The Apartment Fortress
Living in Tacoma? Learn how to handle water storage, sanitation, and security in a small space.
How to Prepare in Tacoma
Read the Full Guide →In Tacoma, 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 Tacoma
Water
Scepter 2.5 Gallon Water Container
Lighter and easier to carry than the 5-gallon version.
Power
Anker PowerCore 10K
Pocket-sized power to keep your phone alive for emergency calls.
Water
Sawyer Products Mini Water Filtration System
Filters up to 100,000 gallons. Essential when tap water is compromised.
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, Tacoma is statistically safer. The difference of 1.6 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Spokane | 73.7 | When compared to Spokane, Tacoma is slightly higher risk. The difference of 24.2 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
| Kennewick | 82.2 | Kennewick and Tacoma share similar regional risks, but our data gives Kennewick the edge in overall safety. |
| Bremerton | 91.7 | Bremerton and Tacoma share similar regional risks, but our data gives Bremerton the edge in overall safety. |
| Olympia | 94.1 | When compared to Olympia, Tacoma is slightly higher risk. The difference of 3.8 points highlights local geological and meteorological variations. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are Earthquakes in Tacoma?
With a risk score of 99.5 for Earthquake, Tacoma 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 Tacoma safer than other cities in Washington?
It varies by hazard. While Tacoma has its own risk profile (Total Score: 97.9), it is among the higher-risk areas in Washington. See our state rankings for a direct comparison.
Should I move to Tacoma given the risk of Volcano?
Every city has risks. The threat of Volcano (Score: 98.9) is manageable with proper preparation. The local infrastructure in Tacoma is designed to handle this, but personal insurance and a 'go-bag' are recommended.
How does Tacoma compare to other cities in Washington?
See the full Washington Disaster Rankings to see how Tacoma stacks up against other cities in the state.