Japanese tsunami debris could reach U.S. this winter
Scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are predicting that debris from the tsunami that struck Japan last March could reach U.S. shores this winter.
The Japanese government estimated that the tsunami generated 25 million tons of rubble, but there are no solid estimates as to how much was swept back into the water and how much still remains afloat.
"We're preparing for the best and worst case scenarios -- and everything in between," said Nancy Wallace, director for NOAA's Marine Debris Program.
Vessels journeying through the North Pacific have reported very few debris sightings. Only two pieces have been clearly linked to the tsunami. Initial large debris fields included boats, pieces of buildings, plastic, metal and rubber objects. Some of the debris fields once were visible from satellites, but this is no longer the case.
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