An underwater earthquake of magnitude 9.3 off the coast of Alaska could generate this catastrophe during the next 1, 000 years, but other smaller and nearby
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The hypothetical tsunami that would hit the south of California in the next 1, 000 years would occur in the Aleutian Trench, off the coast of Alaska, according to a study by geologists from the golden state.
A 9.3 magnitude underwater earthquake in this area could generate a wave that would hit southern California several hours later and would flood parts of Malibu, Santa Monica, Venice, Marina del Rey, Long Beach and the two busiest ports in the country.
This is the worst possible case that the study reveals, but there are many other possibilities for a catastrophe. Earthquakes on the submarine faults near the Catalina and Anacapa islands and underwater landslides off the Palos Verdes peninsula generate tsunamis capable of flooding those same areas in just minutes.
The California Geological Survey has released new maps showing the extent of flooding that could produce the worst tsunamis in Los Angeles County. The objective is to help local emergency authorities prepare for these scenarios .
This is the Official Tsunami Preparedness Week , when authorities remind residents of the coastal areas to prepare for disasters that may or may not occur during your lifetime.
The earthquake that may occur in Alaska during the next 1, 000 years might be the easiest to answer as there would be hours to evacuate after an official warning was issued.
But there would be little or no time between the official warning and the massive floods in the small tremors that occur offshore , according to engineer Nick Graehl, who helps local agencies plan evacuation strategies.
Graehl believes that the best preparation is for people in the area look at the maps, find an evacuation route and practice it. Geological engineer Rick Wilsonn recommends evacuate on foot and not by car in case tsunami.