The Socio-economic character of Alaska in 1999-2000

In order to provide an estimate of the potential socio-economic impacts that a tsunami of the magnitude of the 1964 event might have today, it is first necessary to provide a summary of some characteristics of the State of Alaska as it is forecast for the fiscal year 1999-2000.

Table 4 - The population of Alaska as a whole, and for each of the settlements heavily impacted in 1964 and as they are now in 1999-2000.

Location	1964 Population	1999-2000 Population
Alaska	250,000	622,000
Anchorage	100,000	226,338
Cordova	1,100	2,435
Homer	1,200	4,154
Kodiak	2,658	13,848
Seaward	1,730	3,010
Valdez	1,200	4,164
Whittier	70	280

From the data contained within Table 4 it can be seen that the population of some settlements that were severely affected by the 1964 tsunami have grown considerably since that time. For example, the population of Kodiak has increased by more than 520%. Consequently, a considerably larger population now lives and works within the tsunami flood risk zone for an event of 1964 magnitude. Direct losses could be incurred by the insurance industry for claims for personal injury or death. Indirect claims may arise in association with medical expenses for hospital care and treatment. The exact costs would be dependent on the level and extent of personal insurance.