The massive early-morning quake off the coast of Chile has dozens of Pacific-bordering nations on alert as the shifting of plates are causing tsunami conditions in the water. The West Coast and Alaska Tsunami Warning Center issued an advisory for the North American West Coast, though it is important to note that while the effects can be dangerous, they are not expected to be devastating here:

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 for areas under an advisory. Currents may be hazardous to swimmers, boats, and coastal structures and may continue for several hours after the initial wave arrival.

Three men were swept into the ocean this afternoon below the cliffs of Point Fermin in San Pedro. Two of them were able to escape to shore with relatively little injury, but one had to be rescued by a Los Angeles Fire Department boat. He's listed in critical condition. Rescues around Point Fermin are pretty common as the area seems much safer than it actually is. more ›