// Risk Intelligence
| Risk Score | 7 / 10 High |
| Facility Type | 💧 Water Treatment Facility |
| Operator / Branch | Portland Water Bureau |
| Host County | Multnomah County OR |
| Nearest City | Pepperell MA |
| Primary Risk Radius | 5 miles |
| Secondary Risk Radius | 20 miles |
// Strategic Significance
Portland Water Bureau serves 950,000 residents drawing water from the Bull Run Watershed on the slopes of Mount Hood and from the Columbia South Shore Well Field. The Bull Run Watershed is one of the cleanest municipal water supplies in the US. A major Cascadia earthquake could rupture Portland water distribution pipes leaving residents without water for weeks or months. Mount Hood volcanic activity or wildfire could contaminate the Bull Run Watershed. Portland experienced a major water main break in 2023 disrupting service.
// Civilian Impact Assessment
Multnomah County with 800,000 residents. Cascadia earthquake could rupture water distribution mains leaving Portland without water for weeks. Bull Run Watershed contamination from wildfire or volcanic activity would eliminate the primary water source. Portland infrastructure is not fully seismically upgraded.
// Evacuation & Shelter Guidance
I-5, I-84, Bull Run Watershed, Mount Hood. Multnomah County Emergency Management coordinates Cascadia earthquake wildfire and water system protocols.