8.9 Earthquake, Tsunami Devastate Japan: How to Help from Here

Hundreds are dead and many parts of northeast Japan are flooded Friday after an earthquake, three aftershocks and a tsunami rocked the region late Thursday our time.

The Southern California coast was waiting out related tsunami advisory Friday morning, with waves expected to hit the San Pedro and Santa Monica shorelines Friday. By noon, Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department downgraded the tsunami warning to an advisory.

Experts were predicting currents hazardous to swimmers, boats and buildings that could last several hours. Coastal residents were advised to prepare for possible evacuation.

Many locals are already getting involved in relief efforts. According to CBS news, the Los Angeles County Fire Department is sending a 74-member urban search and rescue team to the area to aid in rescue efforts.

Experts were predicting currents hazardous to swimmers, boats and buildings that could last several hours.  Coastal residents were advised to prepare for possible evacuation.

It's hard to watch the devastation in Asia without wanting to help. Donations to major international aid groups are one way. Save the Children is one group leading the response to the disaster. 

Those who want to help can go to http://www.facebook.com/l/a5fc2/www.redcross.org and donate to Japan Earthquake and Pacific Tsunami. People can also text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation to help those affected by the earthquake in Japan and tsunami throughout the Pacific.

Click on this link to see a list of other international aid groups likely to respond.

Google has also created a person finder that people can use to help find the missing. 

What do you plan to do?  What are folks in La Cañada Flintridge going to do to help?

Tell us and we'll post a list that others can use too!