Tsunamis from both local and distant earthquakes threaten Southern California coastal communities. Although our oceans are monitored for developing tsunamis, when a large earthquake occurs nearby, the first tsunami wave may reach coastal communities, such as Manhattan Beach, within a few minutes of the event.
Local populations at risk must be able to recognize the signs of impending tsunami hazards and seek higher ground immediately. While distant-source tsunamis give residents more time to evacuate threatened coastal areas, they increase the need for timely and accurate assessment of the tsunami hazard to avoid costly false alarms.
The City Council approved a proclamation recognizing National Tsunami Preparedness Week (March 24-30, 2013) and encourage residents to increase their knowledge and awareness of proper safety measures to follow before, during, and after a tsunami.
Information including the basics of tsunamis, lessons learned from the March 11, 2011, Japan earthquake and tsunami, and what local residents can do to be prepared will be discussed during the town hall on March 28, 2013, at 6:30 p.m. at the Joslyn Community Center.
Speakers will include Rick Wilson, Senior Engineering Geologist with the California Geological Survey, and Battalion Chief Frank Chiella, of the Manhattan Beach Fire Department.