Waitaki District Tsunami Update

Advice to people in the Waitaki Region from the Civil Defence & Emergency Management Group is to keep away from the coast, local beaches and estuaries for the rest of the day, and for coastal residents to self evacuate if they are at all concerned about the risk of tsunami waves.

Following the 8.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Chile and then created a tsunami, the first waves reached Waitaki District shores after 9:00am on Sunday 28 February, creating a minimal impact on the shoreline. Waves of between 30 centimetres and up to 1 metre are to be expected for the rest of the day, with unpredictable lapses of time between surge waves. Strong currents and unusual tidal effects will likely continue for the next 10-12 hours.

Civil Defence officials stress that people in coastal areas should:

1. Stay away from beaches for the rest of the day – do not go sightseeing

2. Stay out of the water (sea, rivers and estuaries) including boat ramps and boating activities

3. Be aware that boats are generally safer in water deeper than 30 metres, than if closer to shore.

4. Listen to the radio or TV for updates

5. Share this information with family, neighbours and friends

6. Follow the instructions of local Civil Defence.

The Waitaki District Civil Defence & Emergency Management Group, with MCDEM and scientific advisors, are closely monitoring the situation and working with local communities for the most appropriate response.