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 – a place which is at least one kilometre inland or 35 metres above sea level.
During
- Stay calm.
- Leave the area immediately if you are on the beach or near a river when a strong earthquake occurs. Move quickly but safely.
- Go at least one kilometre inland or 35 metres above sea level.
- Don't go to a river or beach to watch the waves come in if a warning has been issued.
After
- Stay calm.
- Listen to and follow instructions from adults or the radio.
- If you can, help others who may need it.