Submitted by San Juan Island PREPARE.

Could the San Juan Islands face a devastating tsunami in our lifetime? A presentation via Zoom will shed light on the region’s past — and its risks for the future.

Daniel Eungard, geologist with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, will present scientific evidence of historic tsunamis that have struck the islands. His talk will include the story of the “Orphan Tsunami” of 1700, a wave so powerful it crossed the Pacific and helped date the last “full rip” of the Cascadia Subduction Zone, one of the most powerful earthquake faults on Earth. He will also highlight Native American oral traditions that preserved memories of these catastrophic events long before modern science confirmed them.

“Understanding our history is the first step in preparing for the future,” said Elizabeth Gadbois, founder of San Juan Islands PREPARE. “Daniel’s presentation connects science with lived experience, reminding us that these islands are not immune to the forces of Cascadia.”

After the presentation, Eungard will take pre-screened questions from the community and share details of his tsunami inundation modeling for the San Juan Islands.

Event Details:

Date and time: Sept. 30, 5:30 p.m.

Virtual event: Link to Zoom https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87005793733.

Live experience: For a shared viewing experience and live delivery of pre-screened questions, please join us at San Juan Island Grange, 152 First St N, Friday Harbor, at 5:30 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. Seating may be limited.