Chile quake triggers tsunami warning for Okinawa

Published Feb. 27, 2010
By 18th Wing Public Affairs

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan - -- A tsunami warning is in effect for Okinawa as a result of an earthquake today 200 miles southwest of Santiago, Chile that measured 8.8 on the Richter scale.

If a tsunami does strike Okinawa, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center predicts it will hit around 3:10 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 28.

There are no estimates available on the size of the wave that may reach Okinawa.

All personnel are encouraged to check www.kadena.af.mil, the Commander's Access Channel and stay tuned to AFN for updates.

If an evacuation of coastal areas is necessary, 18th Wing officials will disseminate information as quickly as possible about on-base locations where SOFA status personnel and their families can gather until the danger has passed. In addition, off base residents should follow the direction of local authorities.

The Chile quake follows a 7.0 magnitude quake that struck around 5:30 a.m. 50 miles east-southeast of Naha, Okinawa. The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami warning shortly after that quake but rescinded it around 6:30 a.m.

There were no reports of damage or injuries on base and no impact on the base's mission.