Survival guides · Disasters

Tsunami

ACT NOWA tsunami warning — or a strong quake on the coast, the sea pulling far back, or a roar from the ocean. Any one: go now.

1. Know the signs

   • Official: a phone alert, radio, or sirens.
   • Natural — don't wait for an alert:
   • A quake that's hard to stand in or lasts a long time.
   • The ocean pulling back and exposing the sea floor.
   • A loud roar from the sea.

2. Go high and inland

   • Up and away from the water — as high and as far inland as you can.
   • On foot if roads jam. Run if you have to.
   • Never go down to the beach to watch.
   Why

   A local tsunami can arrive in minutes — faster than any official warning. The first wave is often not the biggest, and waves keep coming for hours.

3. Can't get to high ground?

   • The upper floors of a tall concrete building. The roof if you must.
   • Wood buildings are a last resort.
   • In the water? Grab something that floats.

4. Stay away until the all-clear

   • Waves can keep coming for hours — even days.
   • Go back only when officials say so.
   • Watch for debris, broken roads, and floodwater full of sewage.

Sources: NOAA / National Weather Service — Tsunami Safety · FEMA / Ready.gov

General information to help in an emergency — not a substitute for training or professional care.