New Zealand is a country surrounded by water, so many coastal communities are at risk from tsunami. In a near-source tsunami the water level may fall very quickly past the normal low tide mark, then return just as quickly. If this happens, there won't be enough time to issue a warning and it is important that you know what to do, and that you act quickly.
WHAT IS A TSUNAMI?
Tsunami is a Japanese word meaning 'harbour wave'. A tsunami is a series of fast travelling waves caused by a large disturbance on the ocean floor, such as an earthquake, landslide, volcanic eruption or meteorite.
Tsunami waves appear either as rapidly-moving tides with very strong currents that can wash people and objects out to sea, or as large breaking waves that can cause significant impact damage at the shoreline.
Before
- Know if your local area could be struck by a tsunami.
- Talk with your family and prepare an emergency plan.
- Identify safe places close to your home and school – as far inland and as high up as possible.
During
- Stay calm.
- Leave the area immediately if you are at the beach or near a river when a strong earthquake occurs. Move quickly but safely.
- Go as far inland and as high up as you can.
- Don’t go to a river or beach to watch the waves come in if a warning has been issued.
After
- Listen to, and follow, instructions from adults or the radio.
- Do not go down to the sea or river until you have been told it is safe to do so.
- Help others who may need it, if you can do so safely.