Tsunami warning: Ventura residents turn out to catch a glimpse of currents

In Ventura, dozens of onlookers were gathered on the oceanfront promenade and nearby parking garage, hoping to catch a glimpse of some of the unusual currents or surge in waves.

Shortly after 9 a.m., water started receding along the coast by as much as 40 yards, exposing tidepools, rocks and mud. Experts say that this is typical of tsunamis; first the water is sucked out and then comes roaring back.

Christine Guerrero, a Ventura College student and substitute teacher, said she is on vacation and was excited to see the currents.
 
“People asked me what are you going to do over spring break? I said, ‘Go to the beach every day and here I am.’”

Surfer Craig Rivera was not deterred by the tsunami advisory. He went surfing, even though he said the ride was a bit rough and bumpy.     

"My heart goes out to the people of Japan," he said. "We have a choice of coming down here and surfing this morning, but they had no choice at all." 

David Rashi, a window washer at Eric Ericsson’s seafood restaurant on the closed Ventura Pier, took it all in stride.

“Tsunami or not, life goes on and bills must get paid.”

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-- Steve Chawkins in Ventura