Big Wave Fails To Materialize

Japanese living in southern coastal areas scrambled to high ground Thursday after authorities sounded a full-scale tsunami alert following a strong earthquake.

Residents were told to get away from the water immediately because waves up to six feet high could pound the coast. Television stations broadcast continuous warnings. The military sent in ships and planes. Normally bustling docks along a 750-mile length of coastline were deserted.

But the big wave never came.

After three hours, a surge of water measuring no more than 4-1/2 inches washed ashore, and the alert was lifted. Still, nine fishing boats were swamped or damaged in narrow ports where the coastline amplified the effects of the sudden rush of sea-water.

“We’re just relieved the whole thing is over,” said Osamu Fujizono, a coast guard spokesman.