Tsunami Advisory in effect for North Coast after volcanic eruption in Tonga

Press release from the City of Eureka…..

RE: Tsunami Warning Advisory

City of Eureka staff monitored the Tsunami statements and advisories issued by the National Weather Service during the early morning hours of January 15, 2022.

Advisory Statements began after the eruption of the Hunga Tonga volcano in the Tonga Islands area of the Pacific.

Following the confirmation that a Tsuanami Advisory was in effect for the California coast with waves expected to arrive between 0730 and 0800 hrs., staff notified live aboard residents at the Eureka Boat Basin of the expected impacts and advised residents to leave their boats and seek shelter elsewhere.

Notification was also made to those who were camping in vehicles overnight at the Samoa Boat ramp or other harbor areas.

All docks and ramps were closed and are expected to remain closed until an “all clear” advisory is issued.

A slight surge was noticed in the harbor area around 8 am and staff continues to monitor the area for additional surges.

Surges which could be dangerous can happen many hours after the first wave arrival.

The first Tsunami wave or surge may not be the highest in the series.

The public is reminded to stay away from beaches and off of docks and ramps during this Tsunami Warning.

City staff will continue to monitor harbor areas for potential damage and dangerous conditions to area residents.