It began with the eruption of an underwater volcano in Tonga, the shockwaves were soon felt in the Bay Area. In Capitola, tsunami waves rushed in.
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Big waves also crashed onto the Pacifica waterfront.
VIDEO: 'King tides on steroids': Tsunami advisory brings strong waves, damage to parts of Bay Area
Tsunami advisory brings strong waves, damage to parts of Bay Area
In Tiburon, the tsunami surge ripped a boat dock from the front of an apartment complex sending boats spinning out of control. Panicked residents ran to safety.
Hours later, the water receded but the damage was done. Neighbors say they never expected it.
"I'll take tsunami alerts more seriously now, it was crazy," said Halee Hatlestad.
At the Berkeley Marina, more than 100 people were evacuated from their boats as a precaution.
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"I got a message on my phone, I signed up for those alerts," said resident Diane Walton.
Thousands of people around the Bay Area received those alerts about the tsunami advisory. First responders say it helped notify the public of possible danger. Police and fire crews worked to evacuate local beaches.
"This is why pre-planning is so essential and making sure that you and your family can get out of a disaster zone safely," said SFFD Lieutenant Jonathan Baxter.
Last summer, California State Geologists released updated hazard maps, showing where 'worst case scenario' flooding from a major tsunami could impact the Bay Area. In the East Bay, the surge could reach parts of West Oakland and Lake Merritt. In San Francisco, parts of North Beach and the Financial District could be impacted.
WATCH: Videos show flooding, damage after tsunami waves hit San Francisco Bay Area
Videos show flooding, damage after tsunami waves hit Bay Area
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"Especially in the Bay Area, tsunami heights may not be that large but there's a potential for a tsunami to knock people down and injure them," said Rick Wilson from California Geological Survey.
San Francisco already has several tsunami evacuation routes posted.
"Having a plan saves lives," said Baxter.
Experts say during a tsunami emergency move to higher ground immediately. Get to know evacuation routes if your community has them, and have a family plan, where to meet if you get separated.