As World Tsunami Awareness Day approaches on November 5, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) is taking proactive steps to engage coastal residents about tsunami safety and preparedness.
Despite Australia's relatively low frequency of tsunami events, the impact of such incidents can be devastating, making awareness and preparation essential.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Australia has had more than 50 tsunami events since 1788. While onshore tsunamis are rare, coastal areas are regularly affected by marine threat tsunamis, which can generate dangerous rips, waves, and strong currents.
NSW SES Director of Emergency Management Melissa Daley said it was important the community talk about their risks and what to do to prepare for all natural hazards.
"When Australians think of tsunamis, they often recall the tragic events in Indonesia and Japan. However, it's crucial for coastal residents to understand they are at risk of tsunamis," Mrs Daley said.
"We know marine threat warnings are issued from time to time, and people should know what to do. In the event of a marine or foreshore threat, the community should move away from the beaches and estuaries, and boats should return to moorings or stay in water 25 metres deep.
"In a land threat tsunami, people should move at least one kilometre inland or if unable, 10 metres above sea level on higher ground and take only essential items and evacuate on foot, as roads may be congested or closed. If you cannot reach higher ground, seek shelter in the upper story of a sturdy building."
While the NSW SES is the lead agency for tsunamis, the Service collaborates with local councils, Surf Life Saving, and Marine Rescue to ensure a coordinated response.
To mark World Tsunami Awareness Day, NSW SES members will host community engagement events along the east coast, providing an opportunity for locals to have a chat about their tsunami risk.
The events being held will offer Evacuation Area map reading and opportunities to learn about tsunamis. Some units will have Paddy the Platypus visit and pose for photos. While some units will offer a complimentary community BBQ.
Community members are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the NSW SES Tsunami Evacuation Area interactive map available on the NSW SES website to assess their risk level.
This year the NSW SES has also completed a Triple Zero (000) Kid's Challenge lesson on tsunamis, which is being rolled out in schools across the state to teach children about tsunami risks and response.
NSW SES Metro Zone Community Capability Coordinator David Webber said it was great to support these types of initiatives.
"We encourage everyone to attend these events to get the best out of the resources available," said Mr Webber.
"Preparedness can save lives, and understanding tsunami risks is crucial for our coastal communities."
Community awareness events will be held on Sunday November 3, 2024. Residents are encouraged to attend to talk to your local NSW SES volunteers about Tsunamis and how they can prepare.
Randwick Unit: Maroubra Beach, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm
Manly Unit: Manly Beach, from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm
Waverley-Woollahra Unit: Bondi Pavilion and Guilfoyle Square, from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
Mosman Unit: Balmoral Beach, from 7:00 am to 11:30 am
Shellharbour Unit: Shellharbour Surf Club, from 9:30 to 12:30 pm
Please visit https://www.ses.nsw.gov.au/resources-folder/tsunami-evacuation-map/ to learn about the evacuation areas in case of a land-threatening tsunami.
