Environment

British Columbia Under Tsunami Warning after Chile Earthquake

by Amy Judd | February 27, 2010 at 11:50 am

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Due to the 8.8 magnitue earthquake that struck Chile on Saturday February 27 2010, tsunami warnings have been issued for places such as Hawaii and Australia, but also for the coast of British Columbia as the tsunami makes it way across the Pacific Ocean.

The Vancouver Sun writes that the British Columbia Provincial Emergency System issued a warning at 7am local time stating that while no huge wave was expected on the B.C. coast, there will be strong currents in low-lying areas, and to stay off the beaches as the first wave of some kind is expected around 3:11pm local time.

At this time local governments have the option of activating their emergency systems to evacuate local marinas and beaches.

"Sea level readings confirm that a tsunami has been generated which could cause widespread damage," the Hawaii-based center said. "Authorities should take appropriate action in response to this threat."