You’re here for a HOLIDAY, who wants to think about TSUNAMIS?

That beautiful, powerful ocean we love to gaze over at sunset is a balm to the senses. Lovely to wade in, relaxing to lie beside, soothing to listen to. We all love our coastal life here. But it comes with a few dangers, so why not be prepared?

You may have noticed those Tsumani Evacuation signs posted around town. They are notices of a real, yet remote possibility. Be prepared and in the rare case of a tsunami you’ll suffer much less of a disasterous outcome.

In a tsunami, you must immediately move to higher ground or inland, at least 1 kilometer away from the coast. If you are in a coastal area and feel an earthquake, evacuate to safety as soon as the shaking stops. Avoid waiting for official warnings and stay out of low-lying areas until authorities declare it is safe to return, as a tsunami is a series of waves that can continue for hours.

During a tsunami

If you feel an earthquake: Drop, cover, and hold on during the shaking. Once it stops, immediately move to high ground or inland.

Move inland or to higher ground

Get as far away from the coast as possible. Aim for at least 1 kilometer inland or 10 meters above sea level.

If you cannot get inland

Go to a sturdy, multi-story building, and head to an upper floor (the third floor or higher). As a last resort, climb a strong tree.

Do not wait for a warning

A tsunami can arrive before official warnings are issued. If you see natural signs like the ocean receding, evacuate immediately.

Avoid certain areas

Do not go to the beach to watch the waves, and do not try to surf. Avoid bridges and overpasses, as they can collapse or become choked with traffic.

If you are in a boat in a harbor

Leave your boat and move to high ground or inland.

In deep water: Go to deeper water (at least 25 meters deep) and stay there until officials give the all-clear.

After a tsunami

Stay informed: Tune into a radio or television for emergency updates.

Stay out of the danger zone

Do not return to the evacuated area until authorities say it is safe. The first wave is often not the largest or most dangerous.

Be aware of hazards

Watch out for damaged buildings and downed power lines. Do not enter damaged buildings until they are declared safe.

Check supplies

Test your drinking water and throw out any food that has come into contact with floodwater.

https://www.tsunami.gov/