Lower Level Tsunami Advisory Issued

Japan Earthquake: Lower Level Tsunami Advisory Issued

City of Long Beach is Prepared

At 9:45 PM last night, a 8.9 earthquake struck the nation of Japan causing significant damage and an undetermined loss of life.

A Tsunami warning has been issued for the northern California coast, and a lower level Tsunami advisory was issued for the coastline south of Santa Barbara. Long Beach at this point is not expecting significant damage, but waves up to 3 feet may hit our coast around 8:30 AM this morning. Our Police, Fire and other City Departments have already begun preparations in case there is a change in danger levels, and City officials are monitoring the situation closely.

At this point no evacuation has been ordered, but we are asking residents near the coast to be on alert. Residents are advised to stay out of the water as a Tsunami is capable of producing strong currents or waves dangerous to persons in or very near the water, and those conditions can last for 10 to 12 hours after 8:00 AM this morning. Beach parking lots have been closed. Boaters in our marinas have been advised to tighten down their boats. Additionally, Public Works is starting the deployment of the Seawall plugs for Naples in the event those plugs are needed to prevent flooding.

The City of Long Beach extends our deepest sympathy to those who lost love ones last night in this terrible tragedy.

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This link displays the potentially affected areas.

http://wcatwc.arh.noaa.gov/2011/03/11/lhvpd9/05/wwareaslhvpd9-05.gif

For further information please contact:

Long Beach Fire Department (562) 570-2500

Long Beach Police Department (562) 570-7260