Tsunami Preparations

Updated at 1:45pm Hawaii time.

We are breathing a sigh of relief as it appears that there has been no major tsunami impact here in Hawaii. The tsunami warning was cancelled at approximately 1:40pm Hawaii time, though the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center will continue to monitor the ocean. Please be vigilant. Normal, non-ocean activity is expected to resume shortly. Mahalo to the Governor, the Hawaii State Civil Defense team, Fire and Police departments, media and others who have assisted our community during this difficult time. We continue to pray for the people of Chile.

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At approximately 8:40pm Hawaii time last night Friday a major 8.8 earthquake struck Chile. A tsunami warning is in effect for Hawaii and the Pacific region. The first wave is expected to hit Hilo at 11:05am this morning Saturday and the other islands shortly afterwards (Kahului at 11:26, Honolulu at 11:37, and Nawiliwili at 11:42). Beach shorelines should be avoided.

We highly recommend that all non-essential parish and diocesan activities be cancelled. The meeting of the Diocesan Implementation Commission has been cancelled. In order to facilitate evacuation and emergency access, please limit use of roadways.

Please stay tuned to your local radio and TV stations for up to date information. And please check on your elderly neighbors and be prepared to assist. Patience and prayer are encouraged. Do not panic.

For the latest information on the tsunami warning check out the Hawaii State Civil Defense website at http://www.scd.state.hi.us/index.html. The site also includes a Tsunami Evacuation Zone Mapping tool to check whether your location should be evacuated.

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