How to Survive a Tsunami

Co-authored by Ky Furneaux

Last Updated: December 14, 2024 Approved

A tsunami is a series of destructive and dangerous waves that are typically caused by earthquakes and underwater seismic activity. If you live in a tsunami hazard region, make sure you know what to do in the unfortunate event of a tsunami. We’ve put together this list of ways to react and survive a tsunami if you find yourself in the path of danger.

1

Evacuate on foot if possible.

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Bridges and roads might be damaged or blocked after an earthquake. Whether there is an official tsunami warning or you live in a tsunami hazard zone and an earthquake just happened, immediately start moving on foot. Walk or run towards safety to avoid getting stuck in a car in a dangerous location.^{[1]
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- Stay away from any damaged roads, bridges, or buildings that could collapse. Try to walk on open ground as much as possible to stay extra safe.

2

Follow tsunami evacuation route signage.

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Tsunami hazard zones usually have signs to direct you to safety. Keep an eye out for white and blue signs that say “tsunami evacuation route” or something similar. Use them to guide you inland and out of the hazard zone to safety.^{[2]
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- There are often arrows posted with these signs to show you which way to go. If not, just move from sign to sign until you see one that says you’re out of the tsunami evacuation zone.

3

Get to high ground.

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High ground is the safest place to be during a tsunami. If there is an earthquake and you live in a tsunami hazard zone, don’t wait for an official tsunami warning! As soon as the shaking stops and it’s safe to move, go to the nearest high ground as quickly as possible to get out of danger.^{[3]
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- If you don’t live in a tsunami hazard zone, you don’t need to evacuate to high ground after an earthquake. Stay put unless there are any instructions from emergency services to leave the area.

4

Climb to the top of a building if you’re trapped.

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In some cases, you might not have time to evacuate. If you don’t have time to evacuate and get to high ground, go up to a third floor or higher in a sturdy building. Even better, try to get on the roof of the tallest, sturdiest building you can find. Either of these options is better than nothing!^{[4]
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- If you’re right on the coast, there might be a tall tsunami evacuation tower nearby. Look for evacuation route signs and follow them to the tower, then climb to the top.
- As a last resort when you can’t make it to any other type of high ground, climb a tall, sturdy tree.

5

Go as far inland as possible.

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The further away from the shore you are, the less danger you’re in. Choose a piece of high ground that’s as far inland from the shore as you can get. If there is no high ground, just get as far inland as you can.^{[5]
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- Tsunamis can travel as far as 10 mi (16 km) inland in some cases. However, the shape and slope of the shoreline affect how far they can reach.

6

Grab something floating if you’re in the water.

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This can help keep you safe if you get caught by a tsunami’s waves. Look for something sturdy like a tree, a door, or a life raft. Grab the object and hold on tightly while you get carried by the waves.^{[6]
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- Though it may be difficult at the moment, try your best not to swallow any of the water. Tsunamis can pick up chemicals and waste that can be harmful to your health.

7

Go out to sea if you’re in a boat.

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Going further away from land is safer if you’re on the water in a tsunami. Steer your boat towards the open sea, facing the waves, and get as far out as you can. Never return to port if a tsunami warning is issued in the area.^{[7]
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- Tsunami activity causes dangerous currents and water levels near the shoreline, which can capsize your boat.
- If you’re already docked in a harbor, get out of your boat and go inland to safety as quickly as possible.

8

Stay in your safe spot for at least 8 hours.

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Tsunami activity can continue for up to 8 hours or longer. Stay away from the coast and on high ground for this period to play it safe. Listen to announcements from officials and only move when they say it’s safe to do so. They're the ones that know best!^{[8]
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- You may be stressed out and worried about loved ones, but you must stay where you are and try to remain calm. Don’t put your life at risk to try to meet up with someone in another area.

9

Watch the ocean for warning signs.

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There are certain natural warnings the ocean gives before a tsunami. Listen for a loud roaring sound made by the ocean. A tsunami sucks coastal water seawards, watch out for the water receding abnormally far from the shoreline or for abnormally high water levels as well.^{[9]
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- These things normally happen after a strong earthquake, but you might not necessarily feel it if the epicenter is far out at sea. It’s best to always be aware of your surroundings if you live on the coast in a tsunami hazard zone!
- It’s also important to know the signs of a coming tsunami if you’re a surfer. If you happen to be surfing near the shore and you see any of these signs, paddle to shore as fast as you can and start evacuating. If you’re surfing in deep water, paddle further out to sea as far as you can.^{[10]
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10

Listen to emergency alerts and information.

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Local emergency managers provide recommendations for tsunami safety. Sign up for any local emergency alert programs to receive tsunami warnings and other info on your phone. Listen to local radio and watch the local news to find out if there is any risk of a tsunami after an earthquake.^{[11]
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- If you’re not sure about local emergency alert systems, call the non-emergency phone line for the local police or call your local government’s office and ask about them.
- Always follow instructions from local emergency managers in the event of a tsunami. They are your best bet for safety.
- Local emergency announcements also let you know when it’s safe to return home after a tsunami.

11

Avoid downed power lines.

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Damaged power lines can electrically charge the water. Keep an eye out for downed power lines or any other damaged electrical equipment when you’re walking home or to a shelter after a tsunami is over. Give the equipment a wide berth if you see any and don’t wade through any water that they’re touching to be extra careful!^{[12]
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- Examples of other electrical equipment to avoid are electrical boxes and telephone poles.

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What should I do after a tsunami?

Community Answer

Head to the closest Immediate Relief Camp. There, you can find information and get basic supplies, such as food and water. If you are missing any family members, you might be able to find them there too, or get help finding them.

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What do I do if I get injured?

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If you have a first aid kit, use it. If not, do not panic; use a clean cloth and some fresh water to bandage it. After the tsunami, head to a hospital or relief center where you can get medical attention.

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How can I save my family and pets if a tsunami happens?

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Have food and an emergency plan. Grab a first aid kit and your family and pets, and go to the highest place you can reach as soon as possible.

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If a tsunami hits make sure you have a few days worth of non-perishable food and fresh water, a first aid kit, a phone with a solar charger, and a flash light with extra batteries.

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Tips from our Readers

The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.

Be ready to evacuate at all times. If you see the warning signs of a tsunami, evacuate before the official order comes so you aren't stuck in traffic. If you never had to actually evacuate, you can feel good knowing you prioritized your safety.
If you notice the waves have suddenly stop coming in, start moving inlands immediately and find shelter. The ocean suddenly going to a very low tide can mean the tsunami is imminent.

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