A tsunami is a series of potentially dangerous and destructive ocean waves created by an underwater disturbance such as an earthquake, landslide, volcanic eruption, or meteorite.

The recent February 27, 2010 earthquake off the Chilean coast generated tsunami waves and triggered a Tsunami Advisory for San Diego County and the entire California coast. The tsunami waves reached the coast of San Diego in the afternoon, causing perceptible and rapid tidal "draw backs" and surges, and unusual currents. While San Diego County did not experience significant inundation or damage as a result of these waves, this recent event serves as a reminder that tsunamis are a threat to the San Diego region. Please refer to the following resources and websites for more information about tsunamis, and for ways to prepare for, and keep safe from, tsunami dangers.

Tsunami Resources

• San Diego County Tsunami Inundation Maps from the California Geological Survey
• City of San Diego Tsunami Inundation Map depicting the City's marked tsunami evacuation routes
• How to Survive a Tsunami from the California Emergency Management Agency

Tsunami Websites

• National Weather Service West Coast and Alaska Tsunami Warning Center
• Tsunami Information from the California Geological Survey
• County of San Diego Tsunami Facts and Preparedness