California Tsunami Stories
Kamome
A story of resilience and friendship.
On April 7, 2013, a little over two years after a magnitude 9.0 earthquake triggered a massive tsunami off the coast of northeastern Japan, a lone boat washed up on the shores of Crescent City, California. The boat belonged to a high school in Rikuzentakata. This is the true story of a small boat that, through the efforts of a hardworking group of Crescent City students, forged friendships and brought hope to communities on both sides of the Pacific.
Boat of Hope
Kamome Festival
Story of Kamome
1964 Tsunami
The great Alaskan earthquake was followed by tsunami surges that were recorded as far away as Antarctica and New Zealand.
“Suddenly there it was, a mammoth wall of water barreling in toward us, a terrifying mass of destruction, stretching from the floor of the ocean upwards: it looked much higher than the island, black in the moonlight. Roxey shouted, “Let’s head for the tower.” It was too late. As we turned toward the tower, he yelled, “Look out!” We both ducked. It struck, split and swirled around both sides of the island with such speed we felt like we were sailing right along with it. It took several minutes for us to realize the island hadn’t moved. It crashed into the shore, picking up the driftwood logs and other debris lodged in our roadway and along the beachfront. It looked as though it would push them on the pavement at the end of A street leading past the Seaside Hospital.” Peggy Coons, survivor.
Education Outreach Works!
Lessons Save Lives: The story of Tilly Smith– Learn about an eleven-year-old schoolgirl who was on vacation with her family when the Indian Ocean tsunami hit in December 2004. She recognized the signs of the receding sea and warned her parents of the coming tsunami. Her efforts saved the lives of dozens of people. This story highlights the critical importance of tsunami education.
Geologic Evidence of Past Tsunamis in California