The aftermath of the tsunami in Tonga, Oceania over the weekend, caused by a major volcanic eruption, reached as far as Hawaii and North America.
In light of the continued eruption of the Tonga volcano throughout Saturday, it was decided to issue a tsunami warning for almost the entire west coast of northern America from southern California through Canada to the tip of Alaska, as well as to Hawaii and New Zealand and neighboring Tonga states.
Shortly after 7 a.m. US time, large waves and even flooding were felt in some places along the west coast of the United States, but for now it is not a significant event.
In Santa Cruz, south of San Francisco, flooding of beachfront parking lots was felt because of the waves, but it was not a life-threatening incident.
However, authorities have issued a warning to residents in the area to take extra care.
"This is especially important for people who have just woken up who have not checked social media or the news before going for their morning walk on the beach. Please make it easy to call your loved ones if you know they are near the beach to make sure they are aware of the risk."
Authorities stressed that "no significant flooding is expected for the time being, but there may be damage from the waves in the bays or marinas, and we advise residents to stay away from water areas until the warning is lifted, as there is still danger from the waves to bathers and boats."
In Hawaii, relatively high waves were also felt as in California, but the local emergency authority noted that "there is relief that apart from minor flooding on the islands, we have no significant damage reported." There is "flooding in parking lots and areas of bays, but this is not more of a nuisance."
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