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REGIONAL: Mendocino County officials to test tsunami sirens
NORTH COAST, Calif. – The Mendocino County Office of Emergency Services said it's going to begin weekly tests of the coastal tsunami sirens starting next month.
The agency said that, beginning on Wednesday, Nov. 5, and continuing on the Wednesday of each month thereafter, it will test the tsunami sirens that have been placed in the Fort Bragg and Point Arena areas.
Officials said those who live in or near the city of Fort Bragg or the city of Point Arena may hear the siren emitting a full “wail” for five seconds. It will then wind down for about 20 seconds until it comes to a stop.
In the event of a real tsunami event the siren will wail, ramping up for five seconds, then down for five seconds, with the pattern continue for three minutes.
The Mendocino County Office of Emergency Services will conduct the monthly testing of the tsunami sirens system to help ensure the sirens functionality and reliability.
When the sirens are not used for long periods of time they can corrode, increasing the possibility of malfunction. Monthly testing lessens the likelihood that corrosion will take place, the agency said.
If there is a real earthquake in the Pacific Ocean that has the potential to generate a tsunami for the coastline, officials said the test will be canceled.
For more information on how to survive an earthquake or prepare for a tsunami visit http://wcatwc.arh.noaa.gov/ .
For questions contact the Mendocino County Office of Emergency Services at 707-463-5667 or e-mail at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .