Scientists warn that a powerful 8.0-magnitude earthquake may strike the U.S. West Coast within the next 50 years, triggering a massive tsunami with waves reaching up to *1,000 feet high*. This threat comes from the *Cascadia Subduction Zone*, a 600-mile fault from northern California to southern British Columbia.
A study led by Virginia Tech highlights the potential for *widespread destruction*. “The land could sink by up to 6.5 feet,” said lead researcher Tina Dura, expanding flood zones and delaying recovery.
The last similar quake hit in 1700, creating “ghost forests” in the Pacific Northwest — trees killed by saltwater after the ground dropped.
The U.S. Geological Survey says the *1964 Great Alaska Earthquake*, at magnitude 9.2, is the largest ever recorded in the U.S. If such a quake struck now, it could displace over *14,000 people*, destroy *22,500 buildings*, and damage *800 miles of roads*.
With sea levels expected to rise *three feet by 2100*, tsunami impacts could be even worse. Experts urge preparation to protect lives, property, and ecosystems from this growing threat.
