[Calpernia]

NOAA had computer generated models of the Tsunomi hours before it hit and sent out information bulletins with warnings.

Did the death toll need to be this high if there was forewarnings?

[Cindy]

Good question Calpernia.

[Calpernia]

NOAA had computer generated models of the Tsunomi hours before it hit and sent out information bulletins with warnings.

Did the death toll need to be this high if there was forewarnings?

[nw_arizona_granny]

I would think that even a 5 minute warning, would have
saved many of the lives.

[Coleus]

NOAA had computer generated models of the Tsunami hours before it hit and sent out information bulletins with warnings.

Did the death toll need to be this high if there was forewarnings?

>>>>>

Of course they knew and it took hours for the wave to hit the mainland. They, at the very least could have called: the BBC, CNN and FOX if they didn't know who to call, at least someone of importance may have been watching.

They probably didn't want to upset the tourism industry or create a false panic had they been wrong.

A tsunami could probably happen to us here on the east coast too and I bet there are no warning devices or emergency plans for us if there is one. Call the port authority and state police on monday and see what they say.

[shezza]

Did the death toll need to be this high if there was forewarnings?

It appears the NOAA did the right thing. Shoot, there were questions about a possible tsunami right here on FR minutes after the earthquake was detected (before the MSM had even broadcast anything about a quake). This was hours and hours before any waves hit. All sorts of junior oceanographers and statisticians offered theories and speculation, many with fear and trepidation about what might lie ahead after such a large quake. (I'll see if I can find the thread for you. Going back and reading it after the fact is quite fascinating.) Yes, all the signs were there, and villages and resorts in the region could have easily been given a BOLO for possible shoreline activity.

I have, however, seen Thai government officials admit that yes, they were warned several hours in advance, but this was the height of the tourist season, and what if they called for an evacuation but there turned out to be no danger? The tourists would be mad. Couldn't have that happen. No, they just decided to adapt a wait-and-see attitude. Only they waited way too long.

[shezza]

Here you go...read this thread on FR regarding the initial reportings of the earthquake and subsequent speculation of a tsunami being generated:
Magnitude 9.0 Earthquake - OFF THE WEST COAST OF NORTHERN SUMATRA
USGS Earthquake Hazards ^ | 2004 December 26 00:58:55 UTC
Posted on 12/25/2004 8:46:26 PM EST by bd476

I think you'll find the thread quite interesting.

[Coleus]

I guess they thought it could never happen to them. When was the last Tsunami?