Experts have issued a stark warning about a potential massive earthquake of magnitude 8.0 striking the U.S. within the next 50 years. This event could be the most powerful earthquake in over 300 years, raising concerns across the Pacific coast.

The earthquake is expected to originate from the Cascadia Subduction Zone, a fault line stretching 600 miles from Northern California to Southern British Columbia. This region is known for its seismic activity and potential to unleash devastating natural disasters.

If such an earthquake occurs, it could trigger a “mega tsunami” with waves reaching up to 1,000 feet high. These waves would be powerful enough to destroy entire coastal communities, causing widespread loss and disruption.

A study by Virginia Tech, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, reveals additional risks. The quake could cause land along the Pacific coast to sink by as much as 6.5 feet, dramatically expanding floodplains and complicating recovery efforts after the disaster.

The research highlights the compounded dangers faced by Alaska, Hawaii, and the U.S. West Coast. These areas are vulnerable not only to earthquakes but also to active volcanoes and landslide-prone zones, increasing the overall risk to life and infrastructure.

Historical evidence supports these concerns. “Ghost forests” along the Pacific Northwest stand as eerie reminders of the last major quake in 1700, when the land was drastically altered and ecosystems destroyed.

If a similar event struck today, it could impact over 14,000 residents, destroy more than 22,000 buildings, and submerge nearly 800 miles of roadways. These projections underscore the scale of destruction that could unfold.

Researchers urge urgent preparation to address both seismic hazards and rising sea levels, which are expected to increase by three feet by 2100. Their goal is to inform policymakers and communities to strengthen resilience and protect critical coastal infrastructure and ecosystems.