

This translates into major uncertainties in earthquake hazard assessments of the U.S. This area in the Pacific Northwest is a region of significant seismic hazards, and much is unknown about the potential size and magnitude of earthquake ruptures and the effects of earthquake shaking.


The term Cascadia encompasses the volcanoes of the Cascade Range and the subduction zone that feeds them. This map is a tool for visualizing and interpreting the physiography of Cascadia. Where and how these people live, work, and play are influenced by the shape, or physiography, of Cascadia. The region is home to nearly 10 million people. Visit Media to see details.Ĭascadia encompasses the volcanoes of the Cascade Range and the subduction zone that feeds them. The focus areas for mapping are strategically chosen based on the overall project objectives but also in consultation with other USGS researchers, universities, State and local agencies, and others. Most mapping is conducted at the 7.5' quadrangle scale but in many instances these maps are compiled into regional compilations such as the Portland basin map. The primary focus of this project is geologic mapping. Geologic mapping and research supports resource assessments, the understanding of natural hazards, the delineation of ecosystems, and defines the framework geology of this unique region. Consequently, this area with urban centers and transportation networks is subject to earthquakes, volcanic activity, landslides, and floods. These volcanoes rest above the active Cascadia subduction zone, which is the boundary where the oceanic tectonic plate dives beneath the continental plate. in Washington, Oregon, and northern California. On its path to the Pacific Ocean, the Columbia River slices through a chain of active volcanoes located along the western margin of the U.S. The Pacific Northwest is an area created by active and complex geological processes.
