Japan Tsunami Debris Starts Washing Up in Canada

After the earthquake that rocked Japan and the subsequent tsunami that destroyed homes and flooded city streets, tons and tons of debris washed out to sea. The tsunami debris has crossed the ocean and is now starting to wash up in the North Western United States and Canada.

The Sydney Morning Herald reports that it is unlikely for cars, washing machines, and other large items to wash up on the shores of Alaska, but Canada has already seen the first wave of glass bottles and plastics flood its beaches.

Jean-Paul Froment, who lives in Tofino, British Columbia, said that he has never seen so much debris in his life. Froment said:

“Fisherman and friends have said they have found an unusual amount of bottles and items with Asian writing on it.”

According to the Daily Brew, the debris washing up on Canada’s shore is just the beginning. There is a massive floating cluster of tsunami debris currently heading west across the Pacific Ocean. The debris, which by some estimates covers an area nearly twice the size of Texas, is approximately 1500 miles east of Hawaii.

According to the Associated Press, the tsunami debris needs to be handled with caution. Due to the amount of nuclear waste that leaked into the water after the earthquake, glass bottles and other objects could contain radioactive material. Tofino Mayor Perry Schmunk said that it was important to approach the debris with caution and that citizens should keep the Japan tragedy in mind when they see the tsunami debris.

“We will treat the whole thing with respect because everything that has come ashore has dealt with a significant human tragedy.”

The Herald Sun reports that some debris has already washed up in Washington, British Columbia, and that Alaska can expect to see some this week.