September 29, 2009
An 8.0 magnitude earthquake in Samoa has resulted in a small tsunami wave event that will hit the California and Oregon coast after 9 p.m. tonight. The National Weather Service West Coast/Alaska Tsunami Warning Center estimates the waves will be less than 50 centimeters high in our region and should not result in any damage to our coastal communities or a need for an evacuation of coastal areas.
"We recommend that coastal residents stay out of the water and boaters stay docked tonight due to the strong currents and choppy waters. While we do not expect any damaging waves or inundation, for safety purposes we are discouraging people from going to the beach or harbors and marinas to view the event," said Ron Lane, director of the San Diego County Office of Emergency Services.
The tsunami wave event is expected to arrive along the San Diego coast shortly after 9 p.m., and will increase in strength for the next few hours. The National Weather Service West Coast/Alaska Tsunami Warning Center has issued a tsunami advisory for the California and Oregon coastline.
More information about the tsunami advisory is available on the NOAA Web site. The San Diego County Office of Emergency Services “Tsunamis: Know What To Do!” video is featured at the bottom of the page and can also be viewed on the ReadySanDiego Web site.
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