Natural warnings
Natural warning signals may be the only warnings possible for local or regional source tsunami. Examples of natural warnings include:
- Strong earthquake shaking (i.e. it is hard to stand up)
- Weak, rolling earthquake shaking of unusually long duration (i.e. a minute or more)
- Out of ordinary sea behaviour, such as unusual and sudden sea level fall or rise
- The sea making loud and unusual noises, especially roaring like a jet engine.
When experiencing any of the above go immediately to high ground or, if the surrounding area is flat, go as far inland as possible, evacuating all coastal areas or, where present, all evacuation zones.
The first wave may arrive within minutes. Once away from the water, listen to a local radio for information from local civil defence about further action you should take. Do not return until given the all clear.
Even if you do not feel shaking, if you learn that an area has experienced a large earthquake that could send a tsunami in your direction, listen to a local radio or television station for information from the local civil defence about action you should take. Depending on the location of the earthquake, you may have a number of hours in which to take appropriate action.
Official warnings
An official warning from Civil Defence Emergency Management may be given through radio or television broadcasts and emergency services.
Warning may also be through a mobile stinger siren mounted on a vehicle, telephone, emergency mobile alert, loud hailer or other local arrangements.
You may receive warnings from one, or several sources. Respond to the first source; do not wait for more messages before you act.
