Tsunami watch vs tsunami warning: What to look out for after 8.8-magnitude earthquake in Russia
As officials warn of huge waves coming to Alaska, Hawaii and the West Coast of the US, here’s a breakdown of the key terms.
Officials have warned of risk of tsunami and flooding after a massive 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck off Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula late on Tuesday night.
In response, the entire West Coast of the United States has been issued a tsunami alert, while there are tsunami warnings in place in Hawaii and Alaska’s remote Aleutian Islands according to the US Geological Survey.
The weather service has added that the current situation demands that “urgent action should be taken to protect lives and property.” However some of the terms used are not universally understood. With help from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), here are the definitions for each level of alert...
What is a Tsunami Warning?
A tsunami warning is issued when a tsunami with the potential to generate widespread inundation is imminent, expected, or occurring. Warnings alert the public that dangerous coastal flooding accompanied by powerful currents is possible and may continue for several hours after initial arrival. Warnings alert emergency management officials to take action for the entire tsunami hazard zone. Appropriate actions to be taken by local officials may include the evacuation of low-lying coastal areas, and the repositioning of ships to deep waters when there is time to safely do so. Warnings may be updated, adjusted geographically, downgraded, or canceled based on updated information and analysis.
What is a Tsunami Advisory?
A tsunami advisory is issued when a tsunami with the potential to generate strong currents or waves dangerous to those in or very near the water is imminent, expected, or occurring. The threat may continue for several hours after initial arrival, but significant inundation is not expected for areas under an advisory. Appropriate actions to be taken by local officials may include closing beaches, evacuating harbors and marinas, and the repositioning of ships to deep waters when there is time to safely do so. Advisories may be updated, adjusted geographically, upgraded to a warning, or cancelled based on updated information and analysis.
What is a Tsunami Watch?
A tsunami watch is issued when a tsunami may later impact the watch area. The watch may be upgraded to a warning or advisory or canceled based on updated information and analysis. Emergency management officials and the public should prepare to take action.
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