March 19, 2026

For Immediate Release

Pacifica — With temperatures rising, local residents and visitors are flocking to San Mateo County’s roughly 55 miles of coast for relief. From Linda Mar’s sandy beach to Pescadero’s rocky shoreline, the risk of a tsunami can seem remote.

But during Tsunami Preparedness Week – March 21 to March 29 – officials are reminding people to understand the danger (look up your address here), prepare and sign up for emergency alerts.

“A tsunami can arrive with little warning, and the ocean may look calm even as danger approaches,” said Dr. Shruti Dhapodkar, director of San Mateo County Emergency Management.“In an emergency like a tsunami, seconds count. SMC Alert delivers life-saving information directly to you, so you can act quickly, make informed decisions, and stay safe. Sign up today.”

SMC Alert is a free service that delivers urgent information to subscribers about tsunamis, earthquakes, hazardous weather and other emergencies.

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