Purpose

This page provides general tsunami preparedness awareness for people living in or visiting coastal areas.

Scope and Limits

This information supports risk recognition and evacuation decision-making only.

It does not provide rescue, construction, structural access, or medical instructions.

Authority Override

Official instructions from local, provincial, federal, or tsunami warning authorities override this page at all times.

If authorities issue evacuation or safety orders, follow them immediately.

FAST FACTS THAT AFFECT LIFE SAFETY

• Tsunamis can travel across oceans at speeds approaching 800 km/h (500 mph)

• In near-shore events, the first wave may arrive within minutes of an earthquake

• You may have only 10–30 minutes to reach safety

• Tsunamis arrive in multiple waves; later waves may be larger and more destructive

• All low-lying coastal areas and connected waterways are at risk after major earthquakes

WHAT MAKES TSUNAMIS SO DANGEROUS

Limited warning time

Earthquake-generated tsunamis may arrive before official alerts can be issued.

Multiple waves

The danger does not end with the first wave. Hazardous conditions can last for hours.

Powerful inland flooding

Water can surge far inland, destroying roads, bridges, and buildings.

Debris and strong currents

Floodwaters often carry vehicles, wood, metal, fuel, and sewage.

Secondary hazards

Fires, contamination, electrical hazards, and displacement are common after impact.

COASTAL EARTHQUAKES — IMMEDIATE RISK

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

• Do not wait for an official tsunami warning

• Immediately move inland and to higher ground

• Tsunami waves may arrive in under 15 minutes

Strong ground shaking near the coast is itself a natural warning sign.

TSUNAMI GO-BAG — HOUSEHOLD ESSENTIALS

Households in tsunami risk zones should keep a lightweight go-bag ready:

• Go-bag stored above ground level

• Sturdy footwear with good traction

• Paper maps with marked evacuation routes

• Headlamp or flashlight

• Emergency whistle

• Drinking water and light snacks

• Respiratory protection for dust or debris

• Copies of identification and medication lists in waterproof storage

• Weather-appropriate outer layer or emergency blanket

This page does not provide instructions for navigating damaged structures or accessing rooftops.

EVACUATE OR SHELTER?

Evacuate Immediately If:

• You feel strong or prolonged earthquake shaking near the coast

• You receive a tsunami alert or warning

• You observe rapid water recession from the shoreline

• You are located near the coast, harbour, or a river connected to the ocean

Shelter Only If:

• You are already inland and on confirmed high ground outside tsunami zones

• Authorities advise that remaining in place is safer than moving

If evacuation is ordered, do not shelter in place.

DISPLACEMENT EXPECTATIONS

Tsunami impacts may result in displacement lasting from 24 hours to several weeks due to damage to roads, utilities, and essential services.

FAMILY TSUNAMI SAFETY PLANNING

• Practice tsunami evacuation routes at least twice per year

• Designate a high-ground rally point known to all household members

• Ensure children understand natural warning signs

• Plan evacuation procedures that include pets and mobility needs

• Store emergency contact information in wallets and bags

WHAT NOT TO DO

• Do not wait for official alerts after strong coastal earthquakes

• Do not return to coastal areas until authorities declare it safe

• Do not assume the first wave is the largest or last

• Do not enter flooded or damaged areas without authorization

GOVERNMENT TSUNAMI PREPAREDNESS RESOURCES

Canada

Public Safety Canada — Earthquake and tsunami preparedness

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/policing/emergencies/preparedness/get-prepared.html

Natural Resources Canada — Earthquakes and tsunamis

https://earthquakescanada.nrcan.gc.ca/

Alert Ready — National emergency alert system

https://www.alertready.ca/

United States

NOAA Tsunami Safety

https://www.tsunami.gov/

FEMA — Earthquake and tsunami preparedness

https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes

National Tsunami Warning Center

https://www.tsunami.gov/

Last Reviewed

January 2026

Sources: Public Safety Canada, Natural Resources Canada, NOAA, FEMA