Community Corner

Higher Waves, Strong Currents for San Diego Coast After 8.9 Earthquake in Japan

A tsunami watch is in effect worldwide following Japan's largest quake in the 150-year history of record keeping there. Carlsbad State Beach sees a 2-foot surge at low tide.

Authorities are recommending residents avoid the San Diego coastline Friday due to expected higher waves and strong currents brought about by a 8.9 magnitude earthquake 80 miles offshore and northeast of Tokyo, Japan at 2.46pm Japanese time.

The death toll in Japan is expected to rise into the thousands and 88,000 people are believed missing. The resulting tsunami flooded coastal areas, caused two major fires and swept away buildings. At least eight aftershocks have been felt, as of 9 a.m. US time.

According to a BBC report, the earthquake released thousands of times more energy than the Christchurch, New Zealand quake. A worldwide tsunami watch was put into effect, but so far there have been no significant effects around the Pacific.

Find out what's happening in Powaywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Aftershocks can be expected in Japan for weeks. The 8.9 quake is thought to be the sixth largest earthquake since record-keeping began in 1900. There were several foreshocks north of Honshu in the days prior to the big one.

A tsunami hit Hawaii at about 4 a.m. Friday, US time, bringing waves of about 7 feet. People along the coast were evacuated. No damage was caused when it hit Taiwan. New Zealand downgraded its warning. In the United States, Oregon was the first to feel the effects in the aftermath of the quake.

Find out what's happening in Powaywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Lifeguards at Carlsbad State Beach reported an increase in wave height of about 2 feet at about 9 a.m. Friday.

The  had earlier stated, "Starting at 8:41 a.m. Friday, Carlsbad can expect a brief increase in the height of waves by up to 2.3 feet, and strong currents. Tidal surges could affect boats and docks in harbor areas.  Low tide is just before 8 a.m., and surf is expected to be 1 to 2 feet (not including the effects of the possible surge). As a precaution, city public safety officials will increase patrols along the coast this morning."

If you do plan on watching the higher surf, be as high as possible above sea level. It's recommended you stay above 100 feet.  Many believe a tsunami is one giant wave. It is actually a series of waves. Tsunamis are not like regular waves. They are much faster, higher and are filled with debris. The San Diego Office of Emergency Services adds that "tsunami waves are not surfable. They are not v-shaped or curling waves."

The County of San Diego released this info:

"The threat is expected to begin between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. and will continue for 10 to 12 hours after the initial wave arrival."

  • People are encouraged to stay out of the water and away from the immediate coastline until after this event. 
  • People are discouraged from going to the beach or harbors to view the event.
  • The public can 211 for information. The City of San Diego also has a hotline: 619-570-1070.

Carlsbad Patch contributed to this report. The Japanese reports are via the BBC and AOL.


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