High Waves, Strong Currents for San Diego Coast After 8.9 Earthquake in Japan

Authorities are recommending residents avoid the San Diego coastline Friday due to expected high waves and strong currents brought about by a 8.9 magnitude earthquake offshore and north of Tokyo, Japan. Hundreds of people are dead in Japan and 88,000 people are believed missing. The resulting tsunami flooded coastal areas, caused two major fires and swept away buildings. About eight aftershocks have been felt, as of 8:15 a.m. US time.

According to a BBC report, the earthquake released thousands of times more energy than the Christchurch, New Zealand quake. Aftershocks can be expected for weeks. It is thought to be the sixth largest earthquake since record-keeping began in 1900.

Most of the damage was caused by the tsunami rather than the quake, authorities say.

A tsunami hit Hawaii at about 4 a.m. Friday, US time, bringing waves of about 7 feet.

According to the , "starting at 8:41 a.m. Friday, Carlsbad can expect a brief increase in the height of waves by up to 2.3 feet, and strong currents. Tidal surges could affect boats and docks in harbor areas.  Low tide is just before 8 a.m., and surf is expected to be 1 to 2 feet (not including the effects of the possible surge). As a precaution, city public safety officials will increase patrols along the coast this morning."

If you do plan on watching the higher surf, be as high as possible above sea level. It's recommended you stay above 100 feet.  Many believe a tsunami is one giant wave. It is actually a series of waves. Tsunamis are not like regular waves. They are much faster, higher and are filled with debris. The San Diego Office of Emergency Services adds that "tsunami waves are not surfable. They are not v-shaped or curling waves."

The County of San Diego released this info:

"The threat is expected to begin between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. and will continue for 10 to 12 hours after the initial wave arrival."

• People are encouraged to stay out of the water and away from the immediate coastline until after this event. 
• People are discouraged from going to the beach or harbors to view the event.
• The public can 211 for information. The City of San Diego also has a hotline: 619-570-1070.

Carlsbad Patch contributed to this report. The Japanese reports are via the BBC and AOL.