• Little Warning: Earthquake-triggered tsunamis often strike before alerts can be issued
• Multiple Waves: Tsunamis arrive in sets—the second or third wave is often larger than the first
• Inland Flooding: Water can surge miles inland, wiping out roads, bridges, and entire neighborhoods
• Debris + Current Hazards: Floodwaters often carry cars, wood, metal, sewage, and chemical runoff
• Post-Tsunami Hazards: Fires, contamination, electrocution, and displacement are common

🌎 Coastal Earthquakes = Immediate Risk

If you are near the ocean and feel a strong or long-lasting earthquake:

• Do not wait for a tsunami warning
• Immediately move inland and to higher ground (at least 100 ft elevation or 2 miles inland, if possible)
• A tsunami may arrive in under 15 minutes

🎒 Essential Tsunami Gear & Go-Bag Checklist

Have these items pre-packed and ready if you live near the coast:

• Lightweight go-bag stored above ground level
• High-grip shoes or boots (roads may be slick or covered in debris)
• Paper maps with marked evacuation routes
• Headlamp or flashlight (power outages are common)
• Emergency whistle
• Portable water filter and snacks
• N95 mask (for post-disaster air/mold)
• Copies of ID and medication list in a waterproof pouch
• Poncho or emergency blanket for warmth and wind protection

🚨 Evacuation or Shelter?

🏃‍♂️ Evacuate Immediately If:

• You feel a strong or long earthquake (especially near the coast)
• You hear a tsunami siren, see a rapid water recession, or get an alert
• You’re located on the coast, harbor, or river connected to the ocean

🏠 Shelter Only If:

• You're already inland and on elevated, tsunami-safe ground
• You have no safe evacuation option (in which case, go to the highest possible floor or rooftop)

⏳ How long may you be displaced?
Anywhere from 24 hours to several weeks. Roads, utilities, and infrastructure may take time to restore.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Tsunami Safety Tips

• Practice evacuation routes with your family at least twice a year
• Designate a high ground rally point and keep it known to all household members
• Keep a wallet-sized tsunami checklist card in your child’s bag
• If you're near the beach and feel shaking, don’t wait—run uphill or inland immediately
• Pets should be part of your evacuation plan (leash, food, ID tags in the go-bag)

✅ Official Tsunami Resources

• U.S. NOAA Tsunami Safety Guide
• FEMA Earthquake + Tsunami Risk Maps
• Canada – Earthquakes & Tsunamis (GetPrepared.ca)
• National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC)