Urban Survival Guide – How to Survive a Tsunami

Tsunamis can potentially occur on any shoreline of the United States, and it is therefore critical that if you live near a coastline that you prepare an emergency urban survival kit and plan in advance.  Tsunamis are very large waves that can be hundreds of feet high, caused by seismic activity or earthquakes under the sea.  There may be very little warning or perhaps no warning at all.  So having an emergency urban survival guide ready in advance will save valuable minutes and perhaps save your life.

Tsunami Survival Guide

Tsunamis can move at a very rapid pace, at several hundred miles per hour.  They will often sound like a very large freight train coming your way.  They start out very small at the location that the underwater earthquake began, but they then increase significantly as they travel to shore.

In many cases, there are multiple waves, each more intense than the other.  The first wave may be small, but the next could be fatal.  By taking a few extra precautions early through the construction of an emergency urban survival kit, you will increase your chances of survival significantly for you and your family.

These waves can destroy everything in their path.  They are extremely powerful, landing a heavy punch on buildings, cars, and everything in its wake.  People who are trapped by the walls of water are unable to swim to safety due to the sheer magnitude of its force.

The only respite is to seek higher ground immediately. When these Tsunami events occur, you will be better able to manage the evacuation process with an emergency urban survival plan already in place.

Things to Do Before a Tsunami

  • Building an emergency urban survival kit will save valuable time.  Make sure to include enough food and water to last for a minimum of 3 days.  It will take that long for the waters to recede.
  • Pack flashlights and a portable radio, including extra batteries.
  • Know the sea level height of your home.  At times, Tsunami warnings may be issued if the authorities have ample warning in advance.  Evacuation procedures may be issued based on this information.
  • Your family’s emergency urban survival plan should detail the precise location that each family member will meet in case you become separated during the event.  Choose the highest possible point at a minimum distance of 2 miles inland.
  • Hold regular family meetings to reacquaint everyone with the procedures and guidelines.  Discuss the methods of communication if family members are separated when the event occurs.  Remember, your community will most likely be without power, phone and internet immediately after the Tsunami.

Things to Do During a Tsunami

  • Remain Calm.  Do not panic.  Follow the evacuation procedures of your governmental authorities immediately.  Do not delay.
  • Grab your emergency urban survival kit and head for your pre-determined family destination of higher ground immediately.  If you do not have enough time, seek the closest and highest point available, including roof tops or multi-storied commercial structures such as hotels and office buildings.
  • Save People, not possessions!  Help your neighbors with elderly family members, infants and physical or mental disabilities.