Mayor Bass Encourages Angelenos to Stay Informed, Stay Safe
LOS ANGELES – The City of Los Angeles is preparing for the possibility of tsunami effects to impact the coast of Los Angeles overnight, July 29, Mayor Karen Bass announced this evening. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Tsunami Watch for the West Coast of the United States and upgraded it to a Tsunami Advisory following an 8.7 magnitude earthquake that was detected near Russia. NWS forecasts minimal impacts including potential wave surge of less than one foot overnight and rip currents tomorrow. City departments are coordinating closely with County and State officials. As of 9:00 PM this evening, the City of Los Angeles’ Emergency Operations Center is activated and being staffed by key department personnel.
“While the National Weather Service currently projects a wave surge from the earthquake to be less than one foot some time in the early morning hours, the City of Los Angeles is making essential preparations to respond should forecasts change conditions in Los Angeles, especially in the Port of Los Angeles and coastal communities,” said Mayor Bass. “We are working closely across all levels of government to activate emergency preparation and response. I urge all residents to stay informed and adhere to guidance from officials and first responders. We have taken quick action to be prepared, and I thank our first responders, officers and personnel for their unwavering commitment to keeping Angelenos safe.”
Mayor Bass was briefed earlier this evening and is in touch with coastal leaders and the Port of Los Angeles regarding overnight preparations. Residents and workers in and around the L.A. Harbor area are urged to stay alert, avoid the waterline and follow official instructions.
City departments quickly mobilized emergency response resources and public safety operations, including:
Port of Los Angeles police personnel are on heightened alert overnight to respond as needed.
The Los Angeles Fire Department’s (LAFD) battalions in coastal areas are monitoring and will deploy department vessels within the harbor.
While the need for evacuations is currently highly unlikely according to the National Weather Service, emergency responders and buses are on standby to assist with any evacuation orders.
The Recreation and Parks Department is ensuring lifeguards and staff along coastal beaches are aware of operational protocols during the Tsunami Advisory and is advising close monitoring of potential rip currents.
Angelenos are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts at NotifyLA: NotifyLA.org and can find more information on the tsunami advisory at tsunami.gov.