Once again we have seen a very high magnitude - 8.8 scale - earthquake hit, devastating Chile over the weekend. One of the roll out effects of this is the risk of tsunami. This had a small impact some of our friends over the weekend with a planned fishing trip in Waihi being cancelled as civil defence turned boaters away and the evacuation of many Whangamata residents and holiday makers.
What is a Tsunami?
Tsunami are large sea waves caused by earthquakes, undersea landslides, volcanic eruptions or even large objects, such as meteorites, falling into the sea. They can travel at about 600 km an hour across deep oceans (as fast as some jet planes), and can be 10-30 metres high when they reach land.
In Hawaii the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre detects and warns countries about tsunami that may affect them. However, a tsunami generated close to New Zealand’s coast could arrive so quickly that there is little or no time to warn people. The risk to New Zealanders is higher than it used to be because more people live near the sea. Previously bare coastline now has houses built close to the water’s edge.
What should you do if a Tsunami hits?
- Turn on your radio and follow all instructions.
- Take your Getaway Kit with you if you are told to evacuate.
- Leave the area immediately if you are on the beach or near a river when a strong earthquake occurs.
- 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.
Visit the EQ-IQ website to assist you in being as best prepared for any emergency as possible. The website includes all the information you need to ensure your survival, plus detailed Emergency Survival Kit, Emergency Plan, First Aide Kit and Getaway Kit lists.
A little time and research now will make all the difference to the safety of you, our children and loved ones.
BE PREPARED - Sally
No comments:
Post a Comment