Is There a Tsunami Warning in California?

Is There a Tsunami Warning in California? Living on the California coast means embracing the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, but it also comes with the reality of natural hazards like tsunamis. After a massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on July 29, 2025, many Californians were left wondering: Is there a tsunami warning in California? Let’s dive into the latest updates, what happened, and what you need to know to stay safe. This article breaks down the recent tsunami event, its impact on California, and how to prepare for future risks, all in a human, conversational tone.

What Happened with the Recent Tsunami Alert?

On July 29, 2025, a powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake hit near Russia’s far eastern coast, triggering tsunami warnings across the Pacific, including parts of California. The quake, one of the strongest ever recorded, occurred about 85 miles off the Kamchatka Peninsula, shaking up the region and sending ripples—literally—across the ocean. In California, the National Weather Service (NWS) initially issued a tsunami watch for the entire West Coast, which was later upgraded to a warning for Northern California’s Del Norte and Humboldt counties and an advisory for other coastal areas, including the San Francisco Bay Area and Southern California.

• Initial Response: Alerts were sent out via radio, TV, NOAA Weather Radio, and mobile notifications, urging residents to stay vigilant.
• Wave Activity: By late Tuesday night, tsunami waves reached California, with Crescent City reporting waves up to 4 feet high, while Southern California saw smaller waves, generally under a foot.
• Downgrades and Cancellations: By Wednesday, July 30, most tsunami advisories were lifted, with only parts of Northern California, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties under advisories until later that day.

The good news? No major flooding or widespread damage was reported, though Crescent City saw some dock damage, estimated to cost tens of thousands of dollars. The harbor’s design absorbed much of the impact, proving its resilience.

How Did California Fare?

California’s coastline, especially in the north, is no stranger to tsunamis. Crescent City, near the Oregon border, has a history of tsunami damage due to its crescent-shaped beach, which can amplify waves. In this event, the highest waves in California peaked at about 4 feet in Crescent City, while San Francisco saw waves around 2.5 feet. Southern California, including Los Angeles and Ventura counties, experienced minimal impacts, with advisories canceled by Wednesday morning.

• Crescent City’s Resilience: Despite the waves, the harbor’s “sacrificial” design protected major infrastructure, allowing business to continue as usual.
• Southern California: Areas like Los Angeles saw sea level changes but no significant damage, and beaches reopened quickly.
• Ongoing Caution: Even after advisories were lifted, the NWS warned of strong currents and fluctuating water levels for up to 24 hours, urging beachgoers to stay cautious.

While the state dodged a major bullet, this event was a reminder of California’s vulnerability to tsunamis, especially in northern regions.

Understanding Tsunami Alerts: What’s the Difference?

Tsunami alerts can be confusing, so let’s break down the National Weather Service’s four-tier system to clarify what each means:

• Tsunami Warning: The highest alert, indicating widespread flooding is expected. Residents should move to higher ground immediately.
• Tsunami Advisory: The second tier, signaling strong currents and waves that could be dangerous near water. Stay out of the ocean and off beaches.
• Tsunami Watch: A potential tsunami is possible, so be ready to act.
• Information Statement: No tsunami threat exists from a distant event.

In this case, Northern California’s warning meant immediate action was needed in Del Norte and Humboldt counties, while advisories elsewhere called for caution without evacuation. Knowing these distinctions can save lives.

How to Prepare for a Tsunami in California

Tsunamis may be rare, but preparation is key, especially since California sees about one tsunami a year, though most are minor. Here’s how you can be ready:

• Know Your Zone: Check the California Department of Conservation’s interactive tsunami hazard maps at conservation.ca.gov/cgs/tsunami/maps to see if your home or workplace is in a risk area.
• Plan Evacuation Routes: Map out routes to higher ground (at least 100 feet above sea level or a mile inland) from home, work, or places you visit often.
• Build an Emergency Kit: Pack a “go bag” with 72 hours of supplies, including water, food, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.
• Stay Informed: Sign up for alerts via NOAA Weather Radio, Wireless Emergency Alerts, or local systems. Follow instructions from local officials.

If you’re visiting the coast, ask your hotel or campground about tsunami safety protocols. Boaters should know to head to deeper waters (at least 180 feet) if possible during a tsunami event.

What’s the Bigger Picture for California’s Tsunami Risk?

While this event was a distant-source tsunami, triggered far away with hours of warning, California also faces risks from near-source tsunamis, which could hit within minutes of a local earthquake. The California Geological Survey’s recent risk assessments highlight the potential for significant damage:

• Distant-Source Tsunamis: A quake in Alaska or Chile could produce waves up to 32 feet in San Francisco or 15 feet in Long Beach, with 5-13 hours of warning.
• Near-Source Tsunamis: A local quake could leave just 10 minutes to evacuate, posing a greater challenge.
• Vulnerable Areas: Over 680,000 Californians live in tsunami hazard zones during the day, with potential damages exceeding $12.6 billion.

Crescent City’s 1964 tsunami, which killed 11 people and destroyed 289 buildings, underscores the need for preparedness. Updated hazard maps show expanded risk areas in places like Long Beach, Malibu, and Marina del Rey, so staying informed is critical.

In summary, as of July 30, 2025, all tsunami warnings and most advisories in California have been lifted following the Russia earthquake, with only minor damage reported. However, this event is a wake-up call to stay prepared. By understanding alerts, planning evacuation routes, and keeping emergency supplies ready, Californians can face future tsunami risks with confidence. Stay safe, stay informed, and let’s keep enjoying the beauty of our coast while respecting its power.