Ore. Computer Simulation Guides Tsunami Planning

A new computer simulation is helping to guide tsunami evacuation planning on the Oregon coast.

Produced by Oregon State University, six computerized simulations show where people might go if a major earthquake and tsunami hit Cannon Beach.

The Daily Astorian reports the simulations accompany a 13-page report that compares the effects a proposed tsunami evacuation building might have at two different sites in Cannon Beach, as well as a new bridge over Ecola Creek.

The simulations suggest an evacuation building placed at Spruce and Washington streets would be more effective than a building proposed on Gower Street, where City Hall stands.

The computer model indicates the Washington Street building could reduce fatalities by 65 percent, while fatalities at the Gower Street site might be reduced by just 11 percent overall.