Tsunami FAQs
Find answers to the most common questions about tsunami safety, recognizing the warning signs, how far inland waves can reach, and how much time you may have after an earthquake strikes — because when the ocean pulls back, knowing what comes next could save your life.
Common Questions
How do I prepare for a tsunami?
Know your evacuation zone at tsunami.gov, identify inland or high-ground evacuation routes (100 feet above sea level or 2 miles inland), sign up for local tsunami alerts, and practice evacuation routes twice yearly. Keep a go-bag near the door if you live in a tsunami zone.
What are the warning signs of a tsunami?
Natural warning signs include a strong earthquake lasting 20+ seconds, rapid ocean retreat exposing the sea floor, or a loud ocean roar like a train. Do not wait for official warnings. Move immediately to high ground or inland.
How long after an earthquake does a tsunami hit?
Local tsunamis can hit within minutes. Distant tsunamis (from earthquakes thousands of miles away) can take hours. After a strong coastal earthquake, evacuate to high ground immediately; do not wait for official confirmation.
How far inland can a tsunami reach?
It depends on the terrain. On flat coastlines, tsunamis can penetrate 10+ miles inland. Official evacuation zones typically extend to 100 feet elevation or 2 miles inland, whichever is reached first. Check local zone maps for your specific area.
What should I do during a tsunami?
Go higher, go further. Move to ground at least 100 feet above sea level or 2 miles inland. If trapped, move to an upper floor of a reinforced concrete building. Do not return to the beach until officials declare it safe; tsunamis come as multiple waves over hours.