M. D. McGuire : “2021 Tsunami Preparedness Week: Recap and Highlights”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : : 1. “Lori Dengler tsunami preparedness expert”
2. “Tsunami preparedness week recap 2021”

I recently attended a 1964 tsunami memorial event at the Crescent City Cultural Center, where I learned about survivor accounts and the harrowing experiences of those affected by the disaster. Gary Clawson’s story, in particular, stood out as he shared his family’s close call at the Long Branch Tavern during the tsunami. The event also highlighted the importance of tsunami preparedness and the advancements in communication systems for warning residents of potential disasters. It was a reminder of the need to be vigilant and informed in the face of natural hazards. Learn more about this event and other tsunami stories at the 1964 earthquake and tsunami webpage.

The 1964 Tsunami Memorial at Crescent City Cultural Center

Last Thursday, I had the privilege of attending a poignant 1964 tsunami memorial at the Crescent City Cultural Center. The event aimed to commemorate the tragic events that unfolded on the evening and early morning hours of March 27 and 28 in Crescent City, a small coastal town in California.

Survivor Accounts Paint a Vivid Picture

One of the highlights of the memorial was hearing survivor accounts, each one shedding new light on the harrowing experience. Gary Clawson’s story, in particular, resonated with me. His family was celebrating his father Bill’s birthday at their home when they heard the news of the tsunami on the radio. Bill, who owned the Long Branch Tavern just south of Elk Creek, decided to check on the building amidst the chaos.

The group made their way to the tavern and arrived during a brief lull between the second and third waves. As they were enjoying a round of beer, another surge hit, forcing them to seek refuge on the roof as the water levels rose.

The Unconventional Nature of the 1964 Tsunami

Contrary to popular belief, the 1964 tsunami in Crescent City was not characterized by high-speed, towering waves. Instead, the surges originated from Alaska to the north, with the offshore seafloor shape causing the waves to circulate around the outer breakwater and inundate the area from the south.

Eyewitnesses reported that the water rose at a steady rate of about a foot per minute, catching many residents off guard.

A Race Against Time: The Long Branch Tavern Escape

With seven individuals inside the Long Branch Tavern at the time, including Clawson’s family and a patron, the situation quickly escalated. Clawson and another individual, M. D. McGuire, realized the urgency of the situation and decided to take action.

McGuire had a boat nearby, and the two waded through the rising waters to retrieve it. While they managed to save themselves, the rest of the group faced a perilous journey to safety.

A Test of Resilience: Overcoming Adversity

As the group rowed towards shore, they were mere moments away from safety when the powerful outflow began. The turbulent waters swept them towards the harbor, where debris and obstacles posed a significant threat.

Despite the chaos, McGuire’s quick thinking allowed him to escape, while Clawson utilized his scuba diving instincts to navigate the treacherous waters and emerge safely.

Testing Tsunami Communication Systems

Following the memorial, Del Norte, Humboldt, and Mendocino Counties conducted a test of their tsunami communication systems. The exercise aimed to assess the effectiveness of current alert mechanisms and identify areas for improvement.

Addressing Communication Challenges

While the test revealed some technical glitches, such as frozen crawlers on cable television screens and notifications being flagged as spam, the overall response was positive. Efforts to streamline communication pathways and enhance public awareness of tsunami risks were evident.

Modernizing Alert Systems

In an era dominated by digital technology, traditional sirens are no longer the primary means of alerting the public. Instead, county notifications and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) offer more reliable and efficient communication channels.

Despite challenges with mechanical sirens in coastal areas, efforts are underway to leverage technology for timely and effective warnings.

Empowering Communities Through Education

Events like the 1964 tsunami memorial and communication system tests serve as reminders of the importance of tsunami preparedness. By increasing public awareness and fostering a culture of resilience, coastal communities can mitigate the impact of future disasters.

For more information on tsunami preparedness and earthquake hazards, reach out to Lori Dengler, an expert in geology and disaster management. Stay informed, stay safe.