by Cinda Smaagaard

Created on: March 12, 2011

Living on the West Coast of the Pacific Northwest has taught me a few things about tsunami warnings and how to prepare.  Here are 10 things you need to know about a possible tsunami natural disaster.

1) Familiarize yourself with the local area's tsunami warning systems that are in place.  Most small coastal towns in the US have a siren system similar to the old 1960s air raid sirens.  They are unmistakable.  When they sound, that means you should probably evacuate the area.  Coastal areas also now provide road signs as to an evacuation route.  They are light blue with a small white wave on them.  They are not always the best indicators if they lead you nowhere or to low-level bay areas.  Your best bet (which old timers' will tell you) is to head to the highest elevation such as lighthouses or state parks which would have public accommodations.

2) Many cities provide a reverse 911 call on your phone or other warnings.  Heed these as the time to get your things together.

3) You cannot tell a tsunami by simply looking out over the beach areas.  This is because the strength lies in the tidal pulls and push or energy which occurs 90 percent below the water's surface.  You might see unusual wave activity reaching 8 feet high or better and you might see the tide being pulled out rather far during a time it is not supposed to go out.  The press has even reported reverse course of currents down nearby river channels.  The energy in the water is stronger than anything you can even imagine.

4) Do not go out to the beach areas to look.  The press has reported whole families gathering along Northwest coastal ranges during a tsunami warning.  You should never turn your back to the tide or sit on large rocks and driftwood pieces.  You should be heading inland.  Ocean water is salt water, not like rivers and lakes, and NOT easy on the eyes and lungs with strong currents that can wash you out to sea.  Even during normal times, sneeker waves have been known to take out waders and sun bathers. 

5) Make sure you have a preparedness pack ready.  Here are some of the best things I have found to include.  Windup flashlights or handheld flashlights that recharge themselves by pumping or winding without need for batteries.  If they include a radio or clock even better.  These are sold through catalogs, online and such places as L.L. Bean or other outdoor

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