What is a tsunami?
Tsunami waves resemble a rapidly rising tide rather than a normal sea wave. That’s way they are sometimes referred to as a tidal wave. Tsunamis generally consist of a series of waves ranging in different heights. The impact of tsunamis is limited to coastal areas, but their destructive power can have a hugh impact on nearby land.
- A series of ocean waves generated by sudden displacements in the sea floor, landslides or volcanic activity.
- Waves may only be a few inches high in the deep ocean. It may increase in height when it comes to the shore and turn into a fast moving wall of turbulent water.
- Tsunamis can’t be prevented, but the impact can be reduced through community preparedness and timely warnings.
- Tsunamis are quite rare compared to other hazardous natural events, but they can be just as deadly and destructive.
NOAA has primary responsibility for providing tsunami warnings to the Pacific and the Nation. They are also the leader in tsunami observations and research.
Are You Prepared?
- Develop a Family Disaster Plan – Learn about tsunami risk in your community and make a plan with your family.
- Plan an Evacuation Route – Plan an evacuation route from your home, school, workplace, or any other place you’ll be where tsunamis present a risk.
- Practice your Evacuation Route – Practicing your plan makes the appropriate response more instinctive,
- Get a NOAA Weather Radio – A NOAA Weather Radio with a tone-alert feature will help keep you informed of local watches and warnings.
- Discuss Tsunami Preparedness with Your Family – Everyone should know what to do in case all family members are not together.
- Prepare the essentials – Prepare a supply kit equipped to sustain you and your family for about a week and make sure it is readily accessible in case you need to take quick action.
- Have a pet plan – Take steps to make sure your pet is safe before, during, and after the disaster.
- Heed warnings – When warning and evacuation notices are issued, follow the directions and implement your disaster plan immediately.
For more information regarding Tsunamis..
The Log – Report: Future Tsunami Could Swamp Coastal Areas
NOAA – Pacific Tsunami Warning Center
