Tsunamis used to only happen in movies, and most people didn't think it was possible for one that big to happen until the one in Asia. People are now aware of the risk and possible effects of this natural disaster because of this realisation.
Describe a tsunami.
Tsunamis are not caused by strong winds, but by things that happen on the seafloor, like earthquakes, volcano eruptions, and landslides. Tsunamis are caused by quakes that measure 6.5 or more on the Richter scale. The waves move at an average of 300 miles per hour and can last anywhere from 5 minutes to an hour.
Most tsunamis aren't noticed out at sea because their waves are only 1 metre or less high. But sometimes, waves that hit shallow water can grow to be several feet high, and in very rare cases, they can get high enough to hit the coast with a lot of force.
Who is in danger?
People who live along the coast of the Pacific Ocean or close to it are most likely to be affected by tsunamis. The Ring of Fire, where a lot of earthquakes happen, is the most dangerous place for this area. It has also happened in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
What to do in case of a tsunami
When you feel a strong earthquake, get out of the water right away, get to land, and get as far away from the beach as you can as quickly as you can. If your area lets you, go to a higher place. Go as far inland as you can if the area you are in is mostly flat. If you can see the wave, you are too close to get away from it, no matter how far it looks.
Listen to your local radio station, the weather radio, or turn on the TV to find out what's going on in the world. They will tell you where the emergency centres are and if there is a tsunami watch or warning in your area.
Find everyone in your family and make sure everyone knows what's going on. Make sure it's safe and as far away from the shore as possible.
If you have family members with special needs, such as elderly people, babies, or people with disabilities, you might want to leave early. You may also want to get your pets ready for the move, so bring emergency supplies for them, too.
Check what you have in your emergency kits and bring it with you. It would be good if they were restocked often, but if they aren't, take what you can or get what you need while you still have the chance. If not, get some water, food, and extra clothes.
You might want to lock up your house, but this is the least important thing to do. During a tsunami emergency, your life and the lives of your family are the most important things to think about. Expect things to be swept away from your house, and if you can still secure them, do so.
Tsunami watch vs. tsunami warning
A tsunami warning is not the same as a tsunami watch. A tsunami watch means that there is a chance of a dangerous tsunami, but it is not yet known for sure that one is coming. It also gives predictions about when the tsunami is likely to happen and where it might hit.
A tsunami warning means that a tsunami is definitely coming to your area, and it could be coming soon. In the warning, they will say when the tsunami is likely to hit and what areas will be affected.
As a last emergency tip, if a wave is coming, climb to the highest point of your house or the next building and hold on. Hold on tight to anything that is strong and stable enough. If you have to, climb a tree and don't let go.
If you're already in the water, grab a floating object that can support your weight and hold on to it until you can get to solid ground or help arrives. Hold on to anything stable and try to get out of the water as much as you can. There will be a strong current, and there could be sharp, heavy objects in the water that could hit you.
Like most things that happen in nature, tsunamis can't be stopped. The only good thing about them is that they do have a warning (a strong earthquake). The only way to get through it is to be ready, to be ready to go, and to stay smart.
