Do you know what to do if a tsunami hits the part of Auckland you live, work or play in?
It's another natural hazard Aucklanders should be ready for, even if it's not something we think about every day.
Tsunami are relatively rare, but they can happen and knowing where to go and what to do could save lives.
Sounds unlikely? Maybe. Impossible? Well that’s not the case – it could happen.
So, here's a quick reality check: if a tsunami happened tomorrow, would you know what to do? Where to go? Is your home, workplace or your children's school in a tsunami evacuation zone?
And do you know where you could go to wait-out a tsunami alert if you need to evacuate? Is it inland or on higher ground, out of the evacuation zone?
If those questions have you scratching your head, don't worry, you're not alone. But now is the perfect time to make a plan.
A little preparation goes a long way
Getting prepared doesn't have to be complicated. Start with a few simple steps:
- plan your evacuation route and identify the quickest way to get to higher ground or further inland; consider walking or cycling rather than using the car
- make sure everyone in your household knows the plan
- decide how you'll stay in touch if family members are separated and agree on a meeting place
- put together emergency supplies
- prepare an easy to access grab bag with essentials such as water, food, medication, a first aid kit, torch and copies of important documents
- sign up for New Zealand's annual ShakeOut earthquake drill and tsunami hīkoi on 21 October and practice your response together.
Know the natural warning signs
Nature often provides its own warning before a tsunami arrives.
Watch out for these signs:
- a strong earthquake that makes it difficult to stand
- long earthquake lasting more than a minute
- sudden rise or fall in sea level
- loud or unusual noises coming from the sea.
And remember: If it’s long or strong, get gone.
It's more than just a catchy phrase. If you experience a long or strong earthquake near the coast, move immediately to higher ground or inland. Don't wait for an official warning.
How you'll be alerted
In the event of a tsunami threat, information will be issued through radio, television and news media, as well as the Auckland Emergency Management website and Facebook page.
Emergency Mobile Alerts will also be sent to mobile phones if there a threat or a need for evacuation in affected areas.
However, official alerts should never replace natural warning signs.
If you feel a long or strong earthquake, or notice unusual activity at the coast, act straight away. Your best warning could be the one happening around you.
Tsunami warnings are also published on the National Emergency Management Agency website and social media channels.
Be prepared, not scared
Councillor Alf Filipaina, chair of the Auckland Emergency Management Committee, says daylight saving weekend is a great opportunity for Aucklanders to refresh their emergency plans, check supplies and understand the hazards that can affect their communities.
"We encourage Aucklanders to take a few minutes to make a plan with their whānau and know what to do if a tsunami threat occurs," he says.
Adam Maggs, General Manager of Auckland Emergency Management, says while the likelihood of a tsunami significantly affecting all of Auckland is low, people who live or enjoy our region’s coastal spaces should always be prepared.
"A few simple steps today can make a big difference in an emergency. Knowing where to go, what to take and how you'll respond can help keep you and your whānau safe if a tsunami threat occurs."