132 500 NSW SES (flood, storm, tsunami help)
Life-threatening emergency: call 000.
Source: NSW SES During a tsunamiNatural warning signs
- Feel the ground shake near the coast: a strong earthquake may have caused a tsunami (a distant one may not be felt).
- See the sea drop suddenly or the tide go out.
- Hear an unusual roaring from the ocean, like a plane or train.
- A tsunami is a series of waves; the first is often not the largest.
Any of these: tell people nearby and move to higher ground.
Source: NSW SES During a tsunami; Get Ready Queensland Know your risk: tsunamiMarine and immediate foreshore threat
- Get out of the water and away from the water’s edge of beaches, harbours, estuaries and rock platforms.
- Boats in harbours, estuaries and shallow water: return to shore, secure the boat, move away from the waterfront.
- Boats already at sea: stay offshore in deep water until advised.
- On a patrolled beach a warning siren may sound: leave the water and the area.
Land inundation threat
- Do all of the above, and go to higher ground at least 10 m above sea level, or at least 1 km away from beaches and the water’s edge of harbours and estuaries.
- Can’t leave? Shelter at least 10 m up in a sturdy brick or concrete building.
- Act on the first warning. Walk if asked to evacuate, and take your emergency kit (only what you can carry).
- If you don’t evacuate, SES is unlikely to be able to rescue you. If trapped, find a safe spot and stay there.
Afterwards
- Stay put until emergency services say it is safe to return. Dangerous conditions may continue; impacts can last for days.
- Throw out food and drink (including water) that touched tsunami water. Have fresh drinking water.
Prepare
- Know where and how to turn off electricity, gas and water. Secure loose outdoor items.
- Plan where you would walk to and tell family and neighbours. Staying with friends outside evacuation areas is best.
- Check your insurance. Pack your emergency kit.
Library: NSW SES Tsunami Guide (PDF).