Tsunamis

Tsunamis are devastating and when combined with the natural disaster that caused them, they can be detrimental.

A tsunami is a series of ocean waves – not just one – that occurs due to an earthquake, landslide, volcanic eruption or even a meteorite. These giant waves can strike most anywhere on the U.S. coastline. Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington have all been struck by tsunamis.

The force of some tsunamis is enormous. Large rocks weighing several tons along with boats and other debris can be moved inland hundreds of feet by these giant 30-feet waves.

Be prepared for this disaster by planning ahead today. 

Act quickly, but don't panic

Depending on whether the tsunami was generated in a distant location or locally will affect how much time you have to get to higher ground. Either way, by reacting in a calm, efficient manner you'll be better able to protect yourself and your family.

When a tsunami strikes, you must first evaluate where you're located. Depending on whether you're on land, on the water or in between will change your evacuation route dramatically.

If you're on land:

• Tune into NOAA to see if a tsunami warning has been issued.
  
• Don't go to the coast to see the tsunami come in. If you can see the wave, you're too close to escape. A tsunami can move faster than a person can run.
  
• Leave your belongings and proceed by foot inland to higher ground as roads and bridges may have been destroyed by the previous disasters.
  
• Go to ground that is at least 45 feet above sea level. While tsunami waves don't normally exceed 25 feet, they may be forced to "run up" as other waves come behind them.
• Stay away from lakes and streams that lead to the ocean.

If you're in your boat in the harbor:

• At a large port, keep in contact with the authorities to listen to see if an evacuation will take place. If it does take place, participate in a calm and quick manner, otherwise leave your boat and get to higher ground.
  
• At a smaller port, find out whether a harbor authority is present. If not and you have time to move your vessel, do so in an efficient manner. Otherwise, you may want to leave your boat and move to higher ground as the seas may be especially rough for small boats.
  

If you're on the ocean:

• The tsunami can pass under you with little notice
  
• Head further out to sea and don't return to port until the "all clear" signal is present
  

After a tsunami, it's equally important to make sure you follow guidelines to stay safe:

• There are multiple waves during a tsunami and the first one may not always be the largest. Stay on higher ground until someone issues the "all clear" signal. Other waves may follow the first one by minutes or even hours.
  
• If you're on the ocean, contact the harbor authority before returning to make sure the harbor is still safe to dock in.
  
• Stay away from damaged areas and debris.
  
• Before entering a building, check for structural damage.
  
• Don't use matches or a lighter when entering buildings.
  
• Listen for reports to see when drinking water is safe again.
  
• Keep power off until an electrician has inspected your system.
  
• Clean up should begin as soon as waters recede; separate damaged from undamaged items; begin making a list of damaged property; clean and disinfect everything that got wet.
  
  

This information is meant to help you make decisions that may reduce your risk. Of course, we can't note every possible risk, and we can't guarantee that these tips will work for you. However, we hope that if you use some of them, you'll better protect your family and yourself.

Contact your insurance agent to make sure you're properly covered if a catastrophe strikes.

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