Watch CBS News

Governor Declares Emergency In 4 Calif. Counties

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) -- Gov. Jerry Brown has declared a state of emergency in four California counties struck by tsunami waves generated by the massive earthquake that hit Japan.

Brown on Friday declared Del Norte, Humboldt, San Mateo and Santa Cruz counties as emergency zones.

The Democratic governor's declaration says the water surge is causing conditions of "extreme peril" to infrastructure and safety, and continues to threaten people and property in those counties.

The counties requested the declaration after strong waves struck the coast Friday morning. Docks were destroyed, boats were damaged and a man was swept out to sea while taking pictures of the waves in far Northern California.

Brown also offered his condolences to the people of Japan and said California is ready to offer emergency help.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.