Local News
Final Update from the National Tsunami Warning Center: All Clear Issued
UPDATE: As of 11:54 AM PST on Thursday, December 5, 2024, the National Tsunami Warning Center in Palmer, Alaska, has officially canceled the tsunami warning for the coastal areas of California and Oregon.
Key Updates:
- Tsunami Warning Canceled: The threat of a tsunami has been lifted for all affected areas along the U.S. West Coast, including California and Oregon.
- No Observations of Tsunami Activity: No tsunami waves have been observed or reported during this event.
- Safety Recommendations: Residents are advised not to return to hazard zones until clearance is given by local emergency officials. This precaution ensures continued safety as authorities assess the situation.
- No Recorded Impacts: No destructive tsunami waves occurred, and there is no ongoing tsunami danger for the U.S. West Coast, British Columbia, or Alaska.
Authorities continue to monitor conditions, but the immediate threat has passed. Residents and travelers in the affected regions are encouraged to remain vigilant and follow any additional guidance from local officials.
ORIGINAL REPORT:
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a tsunami warning for coastal areas of California and Oregon after a powerful 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Northern California on Thursday, December 5, 2024.
The tsunami warning encompasses coastal regions from Davenport, California, located 10 miles north of Santa Cruz, to the Douglas/Lane Line in Oregon, approximately 10 miles southwest of Florence. This includes a broad stretch of coastline, including the San Francisco Bay Area.
Residents in the affected zones are being urged to immediately move inland to higher ground for safety. Tsunami waves with significant potential for dangerous inundation are either already occurring or could arrive imminently.
The San Francisco Zoo & Gardens has announced its closure in response to the ongoing national weather emergency and the tsunami warning currently in effect.
All guests have been safely evacuated, and the zoo’s animals have been secured in accordance with emergency protocols. Additionally, staff members have relocated to higher ground to ensure their safety.
The zoo remains committed to the well-being of its visitors, staff, and animals during this critical situation. Further updates regarding reopening will be provided as conditions stabilize.
Authorities stress that the first wave may not be the largest, and tsunami activity can persist for many hours after the initial wave arrives.
The earthquake occurred at 10:44 AM Pacific Standard Time on December 5, 2024, approximately 45 miles southwest of Eureka, California. It registered a preliminary magnitude of 7.3, prompting swift activation of tsunami protocols.
The NWS has provided estimated arrival times for tsunami waves at key coastal locations:
- Fort Bragg, California: 11:10 AM PST, December 5
- Crescent City, California: 11:22 AM PST, December 5
- Port Orford, Oregon: 11:30 AM PST, December 5
- Brookings, Oregon: 11:36 AM PST, December 5
- Coos Bay, Oregon: 11:44 AM PST, December 5
- San Francisco, California: 12:10 PM PST, December 5
Safety Instructions
Residents in the affected areas should follow these precautions:
- Move to Higher Ground: Immediately evacuate to areas of higher elevation away from the coast.
- Stay Informed: Monitor official communications from the NWS and local emergency management for updates.
- Avoid the Coast: Do not attempt to watch the waves or return to the shore until authorities declare the area safe.
Additional Information
The tsunami warning will remain in effect until further notice. Residents and visitors in the affected regions are encouraged to visit tsunami.gov for the latest updates and detailed guidance.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and emphasize the importance of heeding evacuation orders to protect lives.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.