Tsunami Report from Catalina Island, California

[cbayer]

This was much, much worse than we anticipated and I have a whole new concept of the force of this.

What we experienced here was just a baby compared to what has happened elsewhere, but the power of the water was stunning.

It started out slowly, with what looked like rapid tidal currents - about 2 -3 feet in and 2- 3 feet out over the course of 5 minutes of so. Interesting but not at all worrisome.

Then it grew... and grew... and grew.

At the peak, we had currents coming in and out of the harbor at about 10 knots or more (my best guess). They created huge whirlpools and raging waters like you would see when whitewater rafting.

First the main dock went out, taking all the skiffs and dinghies with it. A large barge, which was partially beach for repairs came loose. Then the second dock went, torn from it's attachment to both land and moorings.

Boats began to drag moorings and come completely around 180 degrees, first one direction then the other. Some boats came completely loose and were hitting other boats. A houseboat moored in front of us was careening through the water while we swung wildly, dragging our stern mooring. We hit and sustained damage but no injury.

All the while, the good people who work Harbor Patrol here were out trying to secure everything in a harbor that is out of control and full of debris. My hat is off to them, once again. They are heroes.

It looks like it has ended, but I will never again underestimate a tsunami alert. I can only imagine the absolute horror of this kind of event at 10 times the scale or more.

My hearfelt sympathy to all the people of Japan than endured, survived or lost this battle with the sea.

For those interested, this event took place in Cat Harbor on the south side of the island. We are exhausted, but safe.