A Tsumani Advisory for the coastal areas of National California and Oregon from the California-Mexico border to the Oregon-Washington border is in effect due to a magnitude 8.3 earthquake that struck the Samoa Islands region today at 10:48 a.m. Pacific Daylight Time.

The earthquake generated a tsunami in the Samoa Islands that caused the death of at least 20 people and injured 50.

A Tsunami Advisory means that a tsunami capable of producing strong currents or waves dangerous to persons in or very near the water is imminent or expected.

Significant, widespread inundation is not expected; however the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is predicting that unusual activity, including high waves and strong ocean currents could arrive on the Southern California coast around 9 p.m. tonight.

These conditions are hazardous to swimmers, boats, and coastal structures and may continue for several hours after the initial wave arrival.

There are four warning levels for tsunamis; a warning means that inundating waves are possible and full evacuations are suggested; a watch means that the danger level is not yet known and those in the area should stay alert for more information; an advisory means that strong currents are likely and people should stay away from the shore and information means that minor waves, at most, are expected and no action need be taken.

For more information, go to the NOAA website at www.noaa.gov