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Tsunami Infographics

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Tsunami Infographics

Tsunami

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How a tsunami works: Most tsunamis are caused by large earthquakes below or near the ocean floor. 1) A plate shifts abruptly, causing an earthquake, and displacing water. 2) Waves are generated and move out in all directions across the ocean, some traveling as fast as 600 mph. 3) As waves enter shallow water, they compress, their speed slows, and they build in height. 4) The wave height increases, and associated currents intensify, becoming a threat to life and property.

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U.S. Tsunami Hazard: The tsunami hazard level varies for coastal U.S. states and territories. But, given the large number of people who live, work, and play on the coast coast, even where the hazard level islow, the consequences are high. High to Very High: Alaska, Hawaii, U.S. West Coast. High: American Samao, Guam and Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rick and U.S. Virgin Islands. Very Low to Low: U.S. Atlantic Coast. Very Low: Alaska Arctic Coast, U.S. Gulf Coast.

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Know Your Zone!

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U.S. Tsunami Alerts. Warning: Dangerous coastal flooding and powerful currents possible - move to high ground or inland. Advisory: Strong currents and waves dangerous to those in/very near water possible - stay out of water, away from beaches and waterways. Watch: Distant tsunami possible - stay tuned for information, be prepared to act. Information Statement: No threat or very distant event and threat not determinded - no action needed at this time.

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Natural Tsunami Warnings: 1) Feel a strong or long earthquake. 2) See a sudden rise or fall of the ocean. 3) Hear a loud roar from the ocean. Any of these could mean a tsunami is coming. Get quickly to high ground or inland.

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Natural Tsunami Warnings: 1) Feel a strong or long earthquake. 2) See a sudden rise or fall of the ocean. 3) Hear a loud roar from the ocean. Official Tsunami Warnings (broadcast through): radio, outdoor sirens, Wireless Emergency Alerts, TV, Telephone notifications.

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TsunamiReady Community: In case of earthquake, go to high ground or inland.

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Tsunami Watch means be prepared. A Tsunami Watch is issued when a tsunami is possible. Know your evacuation route. Have a plan and be ready to act quickly if a Warning is issued. Tsunami Warning means take action! A Tsunami Warning is issued when a tsunami is happening or about to happen. Move to higher ground or further inland immediately!

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Your safe place from tsunamis: tsunamis are rare but incredibly destructive, so know where to go if you're by the coast. You are generally safer by going to official evacuation zones, higher ground, or further inland. Identify your safe place and official evacuation zones before a tsunami occurs.

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US Dept of Commerce
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
National Weather Service
Weather-Ready Nation
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Silver Spring, MD 20910

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