M8.2 Alaska Earthquake 6:16pm NZT - No threat tsunami assessment
Updated: Thu Jul 29 2021 9:20 PM
The National Emergency Management Agency and GNS Science have assessed that there is no tsunami threat to New Zealand following the M8.2 Alaska Earthquake.
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is the official agency for providing tsunami advisories and warnings for New Zealand.
Based on current information, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and GNS Science have assessed that the magnitude 8.2 Alaska, United States of America earthquake is unlikely to have created a tsunami that could affect New Zealand. Coastal inundation (flooding of land areas near the shore) is not expected.
New Zealand coastal areas may experience unusual currents and unpredictable surges at the shore tomorrow (30 July 2021 NZT). Be cautious if you are at the beach or on the water.
Only messages issued by the National Emergency Management Agency represent the official warning status for New Zealand. We will provide further updates here in accordance with NEMA.
We can’t stop tsunami from happening BUT we can prepare for them. Want to know how? Here are some great places to go to get more information about New Zealand and preparing for tsunami:
Check your local tsunami zone maps via NEMA's website.
For a local-source tsunami which can arrive in minutes, there is not enough time for an official warning, it is important to recognise the natural warning signs and act quickly. Remember, LONG or STRONG, GET GONE.
If there is earthquake shaking, drop, cover and hold. Protect yourself from the earthquake first, then act as soon as the shaking stops.
If you are near the coast and experience any of the following:
- Feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up, or a weak rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more.
- See a sudden rise or fall in water level.
- Hear loud and unusual noises from the water.
Move immediately to the nearest high ground or as far inland as you can, out of tsunami evacuation zones. Do not wait for official warnings.
Once you have evacuated, follow official advice from your local Civil Defence Emergency Management Group about when it is safe to return to tsunami evacuation zones. Do not return until an official all-clear message is given by Civil Defence Emergency Management.
Know what to do?
NEMA have a great website with information on what to do before, during and after a tsunami.
You can also search your address to find out if it is in a tsunami evacuation zone.
Has your property suffered damage?
If you’ve got damage from the recent tsunami, care for your whānau’s safety first, take photos of any damage, and call your private insurer.
Find out more about insurance and claims on the Toka Tū Ake EQC website.
Media Contact: 021 574 541 or media@gns.cri.nz