What do the different tsunami warnings mean? – Orange County Register

There are different levels of tsunami warnings based on the level of danger to the public. The West Coast is currently under tsunami advisory. Here’s what the National Weather Service has to say about the warnings:

“Tsunami messages are issued by tsunami warning centers to inform emergency managers and other local officials, the public, and other partners of the possibility of a tsunami following a tsunami. events that can generate tsunamis. For the coasts of the United States and Canada, these notices include warnings. There are four levels of tsunami warning: warning, advisory, monitoring, and information statement:

Tsunami Warning: Take Action — Danger! A tsunami is expected or expected, which can cause widespread flooding. Dangerous coastal flooding and strong currents are possible and may continue for several hours or days after initial arrival. Should be evacuated. Move to high ground or inland (away from the water).

Tsunami Warning: Take Action—There is a potential for a tsunami with strong currents or waves dangerous to those in or very close to the water. There may be flooding of beach and harbor areas. Stay away from water and stay away from beaches and riverways. Follow the instructions of local officials.

Tsunami alert: Get ready—An earthquake in the distance has occurred. A tsunami may occur. Stay tuned for more information. Be prepared to act if necessary.

Tsunami Information Statement: Relax—An earthquake has occurred, but there is no threat or it is far away and the threat has not been identified. In most cases, there is no danger of a destructive tsunami.

Note: Warnings, advisories and tsunami watches may be updated or canceled as information becomes available. Advisories, meters and informational statements can be upgraded if the identified threat is greater than initially thought.

Tsunami warnings are broadcast through local radio and television stations, maritime radio, wireless emergency alerts, NOAA Weather Radio, and NOAA websites (such as Tsunami.gov). They can also via outdoor sirens, local officials, text message alerts and phone notifications.

There may not always be enough time for a formal warning, so it’s important that you understand natural warnings. If you are at the coast and feel a strong or prolonged earthquake, see a sudden rise or fall in sea levels, or hear a loud roar from the ocean, a tsunami may follow. This is your warning. Take action and move to a safe place. Don’t wait for official instructions”.