Tsunamis

What are tsunamis?

Tsunamis are large ocean waves generated by major earthquakes beneath the ocean floor or major landslides into the ocean. Tsunamis caused by nearby earthquakes may reach the coast within minutes. When the waves enter shallow water, they may rise to several feet or, in rare cases, tens of feet, striking the coast with devastating force. People on the beach or in low coastal areas need to be aware that a tsunami could arrive within minutes after a severe earthquake.

How can I protect myself from a tsunami?

If you are in a coastal community and feel the shaking of a strong earthquake, you may have only minutes until a tsunami arrives. Do not wait for an official warning. Instead, let the strong shaking be your warning, and, after protecting yourself from falling objects, quickly move away from the water and to higher ground. If the surrounding area is flat, move inland. Once away from the water, listen to a local radio or television station or NOAA Weather Radio for information from the Tsunami Warning Centers about further action you should take.

      Before a Tsunami:

  • Prepare an evacuation route and know it well.
  • Monitor the ocean, especially for a suddenly receding tide that exposes the ocean floor.
  • Tremors and ground that moves up and down in waves should be noted.
  • If you are in a boat or at sea, stay on the ocean, away from shore. That may be one of the safest places to be.
  • If you are in a boat near the coast, sail out to sea if you hear a tsunami warning.
  • Keep listening for tsunami warnings and further updates or instructions.
  • If you hear news of a tsunami watch being issued, a tsunami might occur in your area.
  • If you hear civil defense sirens or a pre-arranged warning signal, evacuate.
  • Get to higher ground and wait for further instructions.
  • Do not go near the ocean. Instead, find the highest elevated ground possible.
  • Tsunami are highest in shallow water, so beware if you are in a bay or river inlet.
  • Stay away from buildings that could fall over if hit by a wall of water.
  • Keep clear of bridges and other structures that could be swept away by water.
  • Document your important files and possessions.
  • Learn CPR and first aid.
  • Go to community meetings and discuss what to do in the event of a tsunami.
  • Stock up on necessary food, water, and emergency supplies.
  • Secure your home, protecting it with boards, tightening fastenings, replacing old boards, etc.


    During a Tsunami:

    • Stay away from buildings and bridges that could be damaged in a tsunami.
    • Evacuate if necessary.
    • Keep listening for news and updates.
    • Contain animals.
    • Stay at sea if you are on the ocean.
    • Wait for a signal before returning home.


       

      After a Tsunami:

       

       

       

      • Check for injuries and help the wounded if necessary or possible.
      • Don’t go home until officials give the all-clear signal.
      • Check your home for damage. Don’t go inside if it appears unstable.
      • Be cautious when handling animals. Try to comfort them if possible.
      • Try to locate other family members by following a pre-arranged meeting plan.

         

         

         

        Where Tsunamis mostly occur:


        Tsunamis usually occur in the Pacific Ocean, and there has been at least one a year since 1800. A destructive tsunami can be expected every ten years.The tsunami is an amazingly destructive force. A 30-foot tsunami exerts 49 tons of pressure every square yard. The areas in greatest danger are shallow, sloping coastlines, curved bays, or valley fjords. Tsunamis are usually single, large waves, although there have been several successively larger waves noted in areas like Hawaii.




         

        Have a great time reading about Tsunamis!



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                                       Farah.H!




       

       



     

4 thoughts on “Tsunamis

  1. Hi Farah – Happy Halloween! I enjoyed reading all about tsunamis, well done! Thankfully, we have never had a tsunami to deal with here in Australia, but now I will know what to do if it ever happens. Keep up the good work on your blog. Mrs Broome.

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