ChileQuake National Warning: Tsunami Threat to NZ Update 7
03:15HRSNZDT
28 Feb2010
Tsunami update
Confirmation has been received that a tsunami was generated from the 8.8magnitude quake in Chile. A wave measuring 2.34 metres was measured in Talcahuano, Chile.
The first wave to arrive in New Zealand will be in the areas around Chatham Islands (Waitangi) at approximately 0705 NZDT, Sunday 28 February 2010. The first wave may arrive later and may not be the largest. Strong currents and unusual tidal effects may continue for several hours.
Scientific advice is that a marine threat (i.e. threat to beach and small boats corresponding to wave heights less than 1 metre) exists for the entire east coasts of the North and South Islands from Puysegur around to Cape Reinga and extending south to Ahipara. Some land threat also exists with expected wave heights between 1 and 3 metres for the Chatham Islands and Banks Peninsula. There may be some observable sea level changes on parts of the west coast of both the north and south islands.
Wave height refers to maximum water level relevant to the normal sea level at the beach. This does not take tides into account. Based on historical events it is expected that the greatest wave heights will occur between 6 and 12 hours after the initial arrivals.
The National Crisis Management Centre in Wellington has been activated. The Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management (MCDEM) and scientific advisors are closely monitoring the situation.
People in coastal areas should:
Stay off beaches
Stay out of the water (sea, rivers and estuaries, including boating activities)
Share this information with family, neighbours and friends
Listen to the radio and/or TV for updates
Follow instructions of your local Civil Defence authorities
Please do not go sightseeing
# 4+-foot tsunami waves wash Coquimbo and Valparaiso in #Chile - Pacific Tsunami Warning Center 3 minutes ago via BreakingNews Headquarters
# 7.7-foot tsunami wave crashes into Talcahuano, #Chile - Pacific Tsunami Warning Center 4 minutes ago via BreakingNews Headquarters
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