Take Steps to Prepare this Tsunami Preparedness Week

Did you know that more than 150 tsunamis have hit California’s shore since 1800? Most were barely noticeable, but a few have caused injuries, loss of life, or significant damage.

During Tsunami Preparedness Week (March 21 to 29), take time to understand tsunami risks, recognize warning signs, and prepare your family.

Tsunami Zones in San Mateo County

There are three zones related to tsunamis: green, yellow, and red. Use the San Mateo County Tsunami Hazard Zone Viewer from the California Geological Survey to see if your home, school, or workplace is in a hazard area. The County Office has also created a map of San Mateo County schools in yellow and red zones.

During a Tsunami Warning

In the event of a tsunami warning, which occurs when there is a 7.1 magnitude earthquake or higher, take the following action according to your zone:

• Red Zone: Evacuate to higher ground, away from the ocean
• Yellow Zone: Shelter in place. If flooding occurs, evacuate affected classrooms
• Green Zone: Shelter in place until the warning is lifted

Please do not come to your child's school during a tsunami warning, no matter whether the school is sheltering in place or evacuating the site. Wait for instructions from the school through its regular communication channels regarding student release.

How to Prepare

Once you know your tsunami zone, preparation is simple. Emergency officials recommend these steps:

1. Make a Family Evacuation Plan – If you live near or visit the coast, identify safe, elevated locations nearby and plan multiple routes to get there. Decide how family members will communicate if separated, and practice the plan.
    
2. Sign Up for Emergency Alerts – It’s easy to enroll in SMC Alert – San Mateo County’s emergency notification system. Also check your local city or special districts for additional alert and warning systems.
    
3. Pack a Go Bag – Include water in a refillable container, nonperishable food, a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, three to five days of prescription medications, a change of clothes, copies of important documents and something for entertainment, like a deck of cards or book. Keep it in an easy-to-find place if you need to leave quickly.
    
4. Provide Schools with Updated Contact Information – Your child’s school can only reach you in an emergency if your contact information is up to date. If you change your phone number, email, or emergency contacts, please be sure to update your child’s school as soon as possible.

Recognize the Signs

Move immediately to higher ground – walk or drive uphill, away from the water – if:

• You feel a strong or long earthquake while on the coast.
• You hear an unusually loud roar from the ocean.
• You see water pulling away from the shore beyond normal wave action.
• You hear tsunami sirens or receive emergency alerts.

If any of these occur, grab your Go Bag and head inland or uphill. For many residents along the San Mateo County coast, higher ground is only a few blocks away. If higher ground isn’t nearby, go to the upper floors of a sturdy building. Stay there until authorities issue an official “all clear.”