USA TODAY by Christine Fernando 1/15/2022
The impacts of a tsunami caused by a volcanic eruption in the South Pacific began hitting the West Coast on Saturday as officials warned of unpredictable currents, waves and tides that could endanger swimmers and boaters.
The eruption occurred roughly 5,000 miles away from most locations on the West Coast, near the Pacific nation of Tonga. There, tsunami waves sent people rushing to higher ground and impacts from the eruption continue to disrupt communication with the nation.
Meanwhile, a tsunami advisory is in effect for Hawaii, Alaska and the U.S. Pacific coast as officials urge people to avoid beaches and marinas Saturday.
Dave Snider, tsunami warning coordinator for the National Tsunami Warning Center in Palmer, Alaska, said the advisory includes an unusually long stretch of coast.
"I'm not sure when the last time was — but it really isn't an everyday experience," he said. "I hope that elevates the importance and severity for our citizens."
Beaches and piers were closed in Southern California as a precaution due to possible strong rip currents. But the National Weather Service said there were "no significant concerns about inundation."
More:
https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/world/2022/01/15/tonga-tsunami-warning-underseas-volcano-eruption-sends-people-inland/6538782001/
