Friday, March 11, 2011

Tsunami to Affect Parts of U.S. After Massive Japanese Quake


As I'm sure you've heard by now, a massive earthquake struck off the coast of Japan about 11:45 PM U.S. Central time last night (about 2:45 in the afternoon Tokyo time).  The initial quake measured 8.9 on the Richter Scale, and there have been numerous aftershocks ranging from 5.0 to 6.5 since the original quake.

The original quake, at magnitude 8.9, was the 5th largest to strike anywhere in the world since 1900.

Casualties and damage are widespread across Japan, and our thoughts and prayers certainly go out to folks in that part of the world.

A large wave (also called a Tsunami) has been generated by the series of quakes, and a Tsunami Warning is in effect for all of Hawaii.  Many parts of the outer shores of the islands have been evacuated, and coastal residents are encouraged to seek higher ground.

Higher wave action may also be felt as far East as the northern portions of the California coast and the Oregon coast today, but more on the order of 6 feet or so above normal.  Crescent City, California would probably be in the center of the highest wave action, according to the California Department of Emergency Management.

You can follow a live feed from the BBC on the aftermath of the quake, as well as news on the ongoing Tsunami threats, here.

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