Collapsing cliff creates mini tsunami in California's Van Duzen River

Footage shows a cliff collapsing in the Van Duzen River in Carlotta, California and thus creating a mini tsunami on March 14.

Filmer Maureen Smithey was on a walk not far from her home at the time and told Newsflare: "My husband and I were out for a wet morning walk along the banks of the wild and scenic Van Duzen River.

"We noticed that a constant stream of rubble was falling from the cliff face on the far side of the river so we stopped to observe it. I thought it would be a good idea to have a video to share with neighbors in the area of how unstable the cliff was becoming. Plus, the cliff is above my favorite summertime swimming hole so I have a vested interest in how stable or unstable it may be."

She added: "We certainly didnt expect to capture that huge collapse! We were both so mesmerized watching the collapse that we didnt notice the water rushing our way until it was just about upon us. My husband hollered, 'Its time to run!' Which we did. The water engulfed our calves and gave us a heart-pounding few moments but swiftly subsided again. The rain continued all afternoon and we continued to witness more chunks of the cliff falling into the river but nothing like what I captured on my phone.

"The Van Duzen River is a federally designated National Wild and Scenic River. It was named after James Van Duzen who was a member of the Josiah Gregg exploration party that traveled to Humboldt Bay overland in 1849."

Clip ID: 550839

[newsflare]

If you liked this video check out this huge 250-foot wide cliff collapsing, cutting California beach in half!

[nedmacallen]

Bravo to camera person, no loud yelling just a wow. Couldn’t agree more thanks for taking the time to film and share!

[cameddy]

No crazy screaming - active geology - glad you are all safe 🙏

[titankooyman]

This was an awesome thing to have seen happen! It's great that the people who filmed it were at the right place at the right time.

[dano]

Crazy to think about how long that rock was in one spot and now it isnt

[kaerajpetera]

No dramatic panick screams just the sound of nature and a strong lady saying "wow"👍

[danielherrera]

Talk about being in the right place at the right time! That was amazing, so many of these events go unseen or recorded. We only catch the aftermath and evidence of erosion. What a spectacular event! Great job

[marthaz]

That was beautiful but yet terrifying at the same time just hearing it hit the water sounds like Thunder . Great job guys!!! ❤

[Pachecure]

Could almost feel the cool breeze and smell the pungent freshness of the forest. Nature in constant change. ON HER TERMS.

[jeremiekonegni]

I grew up in the woods as a kid and it always felt special when I would catch random natural events like this in front of me. This was pretty cool and can tell y'all get as excited with wonderment as I would. Lol. Thanks for sharing

[justagirlintn]

Woah!! Was not expecting that. How cool to have captured it on video!

[Just..Me..]

Great shot ! Rivers are constantly changing.

[tw-vmpu]

Great shot. Geology in action. The power of water cannot be underestimated.

[rebeccapeterson]

Good capture! I know right where that spot is. It’s good to see the Van Duzen roaring back to life.

[gtgodbear]

Holy cow!!! A woman filmed something a little exciting without screaming, yelling or "Wow!"ing for the whole event. That was better than the cliff falling.

[anniejones]

What an unexpected sight, but scary as unpredictable. Well done for staying calm whilst filming for us to see

[effdiffeyeno]

Brilliant footage!
No screaming. That's appreciated 👍

[waynemetevia]

Heartfelt prayers for everyone affected in California. 😢🙏

[cosmicgem]

Glad no one was at the top when this happened. That was a huge chunk of cliff and top land. It looked so solid.

[Qistyx]

Finally someone that’s quiet while recording