South Bend, Washington –The Pacific County Emergency Management Council is advising residents that it has received reports of 3’-4’ waves and recurring tidal surges 3’-4’ in depth and up to 100 yards in length in Willapa Bay.
The public is advised to stay away from the shoreline of the Pacific Ocean, Willapa Bay and tidal rivers in Pacific County until further notice. In addition, the public is advised to avoid recreational boating in Willapa Bay.
The PCEMA Council is advising residents of Pacific County that the major threat of tsunami from the 8.9 magnitude earthquake in Japan earlier this morning has likely passed. More than eight hours have passed since the anticipated arrival of tsunami waves. The West Coast Alaska Tsunami Warning Center has maintained a tsunami advisory for the Washington Coast. Please note there could be lingering effects from the earthquake in Japan and/or additional aftershocks capable of generating tsunamis. Residents are cautioned to stay off the ocean beaches until further notice.
The public is cautioned to remain alert and to pay attention to the news media and any future warnings and alerts. This notice will be updated as conditions change. Questions regarding this announcement and questions regarding this incident should be forwarded to the Pacific County Emergency Operations Center at 360.875.9341 or 360.642.9341.