Columbia Memorial, the sole hospital in Astoria, Oregon, is building an on-site tsunami shelter to better protect its community from natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis. The new facility will host nearly 2,000 people and is designed to withstand such events, ensuring hospital operations during emergencies. State reports highlight the vulnerability of coastal hospitals, prompting Columbia Memorial's expansion plans, supported by a FEMA grant. However, recent federal actions have jeopardized this funding, leading to an ongoing legal battle for restoration.
1. Columbia Memorial to build a tsunami shelter for 2,000 people. 2. Current hospital at risk of collapse during disasters. 3. FEMA's BRIC grant program facing cancellation. 4. Hospital expansion budget at $300 million. 5. New facility designed to withstand earthquakes and tsunamis. 6. Community leaders support the project despite funding uncertainty. 7. Legal action taken against administration for grant cancellation. 8. Geological hazards include Cascadia Subduction Zone risks.
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