How to survive a Tsunami

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Pay attention to Official Warnings

Play it safe, even if warnings seem ambiguous or you think the danger has passed.

Look out for Natural Warnings

An earthquake may serve as a warning that a tsunami is coming, and so may a rapid fall or rise in coastal waters. If the water rushes away from the shore, it is going to come back in again, and fast!

Abandon Belongings

Save your life, not your possessions. You don't have time to go back and get things.

Head for High Ground and Stay There

Move uphill or at least inland, away from the coast. Stay there, don't come back down until you are sure it is safe

Expect Many Waves

The next wave may be bigger, and the tsunami may last for hours. You don't get just one wave with a tsunami, you get lots.

Don't Count on the Roads

When fleeing a tsunami caused by a nearby earthquake, you may find roads broken or blocked.

Go to an Upper Floor or Roof of a Building

Only if trapped and unable to reach high ground, go to an upper story of a sturdy building or get on its roof.

 

Climb a Tree

As a last resort, climb up a strong tree if trapped on low ground.

Climb onto Something that Floats

If swept up by a tsunami, look for something to use as a raft. The power of the water will be so strong that you cannot swim or float.