||| FROM DAVE HALLORAN for DEPARTMENT OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT |||
Good morning, in the news today is a volcanic eruption near the Tonga Islands.
The Tsunami Warning center (tsunami.gov) has issued an Advisory for the outer coast of WA and the coast along the Strait of Juan De Fuca. The State EMD is advising of the potential for higher than normal wave heights later this morning towards 10 AM.
To be safe stay off the beaches this morning, and for live-aboards at marinas, be aware of this potential for higher than normal waves. Because this origin is a volcanic eruption as opposed to the “normal” earthquake genesis of a tsunami, the prediction of wave impacts is more difficult. Hawaii has observed 1 to 2 foot waves.
So be cautious this morning, and stay off the beaches until there is more certain information. This Advisory is expected to last into the early afternoon today. Thanks everyone, and stay safe!
After a drive along Crescent Beach yesterday evening, it looks like there was some minor impact of a tidal wave— large driftwood logs pushed close to the roadside. Wish I’d been there that morning to see for sure.
Michael,, you observed the work of King Tides combined with the recent storms. Happened last year too. Makes paddling and rowing in East Sound somewhat unaccessible for a while. Looking forward to when it passes. Meanwhile, I’m very grateful the lake has thawed!
For the tsunami, I was water watching at Crescent Beach for a good chunk of the morning all geared up for pictures. There was no wave. There was, however, signs of what looked like an erratic tide observed by watching driftwood movement in the water and sea foam/water lines on the beach. It was interesting but not awe-inducing.