A tsunami warning has been issued for California following one of the strongest earthquakes in recent history, which struck Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula early Wednesday morning.
Tsunami warning issued for California: Here’s what we know
According to Spectrum News 1, the magnitude of the quake triggered tsunami alerts across the northern Pacific, prompting advisories for Alaska, Hawaii, and as far south as New Zealand.
In California, the National Tsunami Warning Centre activated a tsunami advisory, urging residents to stay clear of beaches and coastal waters due to the risk of strong currents and potential flooding.
The National Tsunami Warning Centre published potential arrival times for tsunami activity in various parts of California. If the tsunami does reach the coast, it could arrive at:
- Los Angeles Harbour: 10:05 (SAST)
- Newport Beach: 10:10 (SAST)
- Oceanside and La Jolla: 10:15 (SAST)
These times are based on estimations and do not confirm that tsunami waves will definitely hit these areas.
However, the advisory means dangerous conditions could still occur in and near the water, and caution is advised.
Government officials on high alert
California Governor Gavin Newsom stated on social media that he has been briefed and that emergency services are closely monitoring developments in coastal communities.
“We encourage everyone to stay alert and follow guidance from local emergency personnel,” he said.
Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles also confirmed that she is coordinating with leaders along the coast and the Port of LA to manage overnight preparations.
In Huntington Beach, local police have closed all beaches, the harbour, and the pier as a safety measure.
“Avoid the coast and stay out of the water. No evacuation orders at this time,” said the Huntington Beach Police Department.
Similarly, Newport Beach police advised that while no evacuation is currently required, residents should continue to follow updates.
“We are closely monitoring the situation,” officials stated.
The quake struck approximately 119 kilometres from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, a city of about 180,000 people in Russia’s Far East.
Sirens sounded in Honolulu, Hawaii, late Tuesday evening, prompting some residents to move to higher ground.
The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre confirmed a tsunami had been generated by the earthquake, warning that it may impact coastlines across the Pacific, including Hawaii and the US mainland.