It seems that the tsunami warnings that have been in place for much of Australia’s coastal region has finally been canceled as of yesterday. The huge 8.8 earthquake that hit Chile last Saturday was feared to lead to a tsunami that would reach new South Wales, Queensland, Norfolk Island and Lore Howe Island early Sunday morning.

The east coast of Australia did experience some very high water levels and larger waves than normal, but the effects of the tsunami were minimal as the strength was lessened by the great distance. However, experts are saying that it’s a good thing that a big tsunami did not hit. Instead of people deserting beaches following the warnings, more people actually flocked to the coastline in a bid to see the tsunami as it came in.

Sirens had to be sounded and lifeguards made people leave the beaches. Thankfully, when the waves did strike the area they were not strong enough to do any kind of damage. Norfolk Island recorded the highest surge of only 50cm.

However, the New South Wales Premier, Kristina Keneally, said that she was not at all amused by the sightseers that crowded onto the beaches in order to see the event. She stated that people should have heeded the warnings issued. Next time they may not be as lucky.

Australia did finally call off the warnings later on that day. Other countries later followed suit including, Mexico, New Zealand, the Philippines and Japan. Chile’s death count is now over 700 and the number just keeps on growing. There are tons of people in Chile that are still missing.