- Follow official guidance but do not wait for an official warning before evacuating as authorities may not have enough time to issue a Tsunami Warning.
- If you are at the beach and recognize signs of a tsunami - such as a severe ground shaking, the sea pulling back significantly from the shoreline or an unusual roar from the ocean - leave the area and move immediately to higher ground.
- Sometimes, tsunamis may occur without the initial pulling back of the sea. In this case, a massive wall of water may be seen approaching land. If you can see the wave, you are already too close to outrun it.
- If you are unable to move to higher ground, go to an upper floor (at least the 3rd storey) or roof of a concrete and reinforced building. As a last resort, climb a strong tree if trapped on low ground.
- If swept up by a tsunami, look for something to use as a raft.
- A tsunami is not a single wave but a series of waves that can come ashore for hours.
- The first wave may not be the largest.
- If a Tsunami Warning is issued, NEVER go down to the beach to watch the waves come in.
- Do not try to surf the tsunami.
- Stay out of danger areas until an “ALL-CLEAR” is issued by a recognized authority e.g. your local disaster management office. A tsunami can last for hours.