Tsunami

Tsunamis are powerful ocean waves most commonly caused by large earthquakes, landslides or volcanic eruptions. If an earthquake occurs nearby, it could create a tsunami that arrives within minutes. If it happens farther away, it may take hours for the waves to reach the shore. Tsunami waves can arrive in multiple surges lasting for several minutes to several hours.  

What to do?

If you are near the coast when an earthquake occurs, drop, cover and hold on. When the shaking stops, seek higher ground to protect yourself from a potential tsunami. Look for tsunami evacuation route signs in the area. Tsunami waves are strong enough to move vehicles and will create many new hazards at lower elevations. Seek higher elevation and follow local guidance.  

If you are near the coast and see a sudden rise or fall of the ocean or hear a roar (like the sound of a jet engine), move to higher ground immediately. Remember, a tsunami may originate from earthquake activity elsewhere; even if the earthquake is not felt locally. 

Be prepared

• Familiarize yourself with your community’s tsunami plan, sirens/alerts, evacuation routes and designated high ground locations.  
• Know your Emergency Zone in advance of an evacuation being issued. 
  • BC’s coastal communities are divided into five (5) tsunami notification zones. UBC Vancouver campus is located in Tsunami Zone E. 

• Understand tsunami alerts 

• How to get information 
  • B.C.’s Emergency Alert System: Tsunami alerts will be broadcast across television, radio, and compatible devices through B.C.’s emergency alert system. 
  • Sign up for local emergency alerts: Receive critical notifications directly from your municipality. See Emergency Communications for more details and links.  
• Be prepared to leave on short notice, see make a plan, and prepare your emergency kit in advance. 
• Check on vulnerable neighbours who may have mobility, language, or sensory needs. 
• Ensure your emergency plan includes a designated meeting area and an out-of-area contact in case you become separated. 
• Practice your tsunami evacuation route during the annual High Ground Hike. 

After a tsunami

You may need to remain at higher elevation for hours. Stay on high ground until the warning is downgraded to an advisory or below, or an “all clear” message is issued by officials. 

Watch for new hazards. Structures may become unstable, power lines could be downed, water could be contaminated, and there could be debris on roads. 

Additional Resources

• Find current information during emergencies at https://emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca. You can also sign up for social media notifications from EmergencyInfoBC on their supported platform(s). 
• See PreparedBC for resources in French, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Punjabi – https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/preparedbc/know-your-hazards/earthquakes-tsunamis/tsunami