Tsunami races across Pacific, threatens Hawaii
EWA BEACH, Hawaii (AP) - A tsunami triggered by the Chilean
earthquake is racing across the Pacific Ocean, threatening hundreds of islands including Hawaii. Most governments haven't ordered evacuations, but are advising people in low-lying areas to be on the lookout. But on several South Pacific islands hit by a tsunami last fall, police are evacuating tens of thousands of coastal residents. In Hawaii, sirens blared to alert residents to the potential waves. Small planes equipped with loudspeakers flew along the shoreline, warning beachgoers. On Hawaii's Big Island, officials have cordoned off the first three blocks next to the beach in Hilo. Streets were mostly empty as tsunami sirens blared. Gas stations had long lines, some 10 cars deep. Hilo's airport is closed. The tsunami has already done some damage. In French Polynesia, waves up to 6 feet high swept ashore, damaging parts of the coast. On the island of Robinson Crusoe off Chile's coast, a huge wave covered half the village of San Juan Batista. An official says three people are missing. (Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) |
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