Many people across the world are wondering has the tsunami hit Hawaii yet? According to most media outlets, the first in a set of numerous waves have hit the region. However, any statements made as to the safety of the region at this point are based on pure conjecture. Experts that have been interviewed by news agencies have stressed the unpredictability of tsunamis. Although computer models have allowed scientists to predict the heights of the tsunami’s that may reach the Pacific basin, no definitive conclusion can be made up until the actual waves reach the inland. The cause of the Hawaii tsunami was a powerful earthquake which struck the Chilean cost last night. First reports didn’t indicate any immense loss of life, however the tally is adding up. According to preliminary measurements, the quake read an astounding 8.8 on the Ricter scale. The Chilean quake was at least tens of times more powerful than the quake that struck near Haiti in early January.

Asking has the tsunami hit Hawaii is quite useless at this point, because a rogue wave can wash ashore at any moment. As we said earlier, the first set of waves aren’t exactly the most powerful. Hopefully we don’t see anything of that nature materialize in this situation. Other regions that border the pacific coast, including California are also in danger. Some damage to a beacon sensor off the coast of Ventura county was reported, but no other damage as of yet.

Tsuanmis resulting from the Chilean earthquake are expected to affect New Zealand as well as Australia. However, the waves may take time to reach the area from the epicenter where they originated. Tsunamis can travel at immense speeds, in excess of 500 miles per hour. While they can diminish in strength during periods of travel, they can also increase in height when reaching shallow bodies of water. The makeup of a particular coastline can affect the behavior of a tsunami.

Has the tsunami hit Hawaii, yes. However, residents need to continue being alert. We will have to wait and see as everything pans out, however, hopefully we will have nothing unfortunate to report. We wish the people of Chile a fast and successful recovery, and our hearts go out to those who have lost loved ones in this terrible tragedy.