“A tsunami capable of producing strong currents that may be hazardous to boats is expected,” the National Weather Service – Portland said Saturday morning; saying waves anywhere from 1 to 3 feet could hit the Oregon and Washington coastline. Forecasters said the largest waves had spared the Oregon coast, as compared to areas farther south in California.
While the waves were set to reach Oregon and Washington between 8 and 9 a.m. Saturday, officials said the highest waves might not have been during the initial wave arrival.
The National Tsunami Warning Center first issued the tsunami advisory for the Oregon and Washington coasts after a large underwater volcano erupted near an island in the South Pacific. As of 12 p.m., many Oregon counties did not report significant damage.
It happened around 8:30 p.m. Friday near Tonga, prompting tsunami warnings for the island and advisories for New Zealand, Oregon, Washington, Alaska and Hawaii. NWS Portland says they expected 1-3 foot waves along the Oregon coast Saturday morning. They urged people to avoid beaches and harbors until the advisory is lifted.
