Tsunami Preparedness
Tsunamis
Most of La'ie is in a low-lying, coastal plain subject to damage from tsunami waves. In the past, tsunamis have caused flooding and significant property damage to the area.
To receive emergency alerts from Everbridge and HNL Alert, follow the instructions in the link below:
Long-Distance Tsunamis
Earthquakes caused by plate tectonics in places like Alaska, Japan, and Chile can generate very large ocean waves that can strike the Hawaiian coast and cause catastrophic damage. These can come with four to 10 hours of warning, providing plenty of time to evacuate all residents to higher ground.
Locally-Generated Tsunamis
Smaller-scale earthquakes frequently occur at or near Oahu, usually as the result of an undersea landslide or from volcanic activity on the island of Hawaii. While less likely to cause severe damage, these local tsunamis could strike in a matter of minutes with little to no warning. Evacuation time prior to contact for locally generated tsunamis can be within 20 minutes.
Watches, Advisories, and Warnings
Tsunami Watch
Danger Level Not Known Yet – Stay Alert for More Information. This indicates that there is a possibility of a tsunami. While residents do not have to evacuate during a watch, they should prepare to do so by securing important documents and emergency kits.
Tsunami Advisory
Strong Currents Likely – Stay Away From the Shore. Strong ocean currents and dangerous waves for those near the water. The threat may continue for several hours but no inundation is expected during an advisory.
Tsunami Warning
Inundating Wave Possible – Full Evacuation Suggested. Tsunami threat is imminent, expected, or occurring. Evacuate immediately. Move inland to high ground. Remain in the safe area until you hear the "ALL CLEAR" announcement from the local Civil Defense.
Evacuation Sites
In the case of an Tsunami Warning, follow the Tsunami evacuation guidelines and evacuate to the following locations:
On Campus
- Vertical Evacuation to the top floor of your Hale or TVA
- Kahualoala, Hawaiian Studies garden (as directed)
Off Campus
- Quarry
- Temple Hill
- Gunstock Ranch
If you cannot reach any of these sites, do your best to get inland and to a higher level. Stay off roads to make way for emergency vehicles. Do not go to the beach to watch for waves, as you cannot outrun a tsunami. For a more detailed evacuation map and instructions, see the HI-EMA and other linked resources below.