Tsunami Unfolding As Expected In Northland

Parts of Northland have experienced fluctuations in sea level and tidal surges have been reported in some East Coast areas as a tsunami generated by a Chilean earthquake impacts on the region.

The Northland Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) Group says to date it appears events in Northland have unfolded as predicted by scientists who had warned of fluctuations in local sea levels of up to one metre and of tidal surges as subsequently reported at Waitangi and Tutukaka recently.

Group Controller Clive Manley says to date officials have no reports of any serious damage in Northland as a result of the tsunami.

However, he says officials are concerned at reports that some members of the public have been ignoring warnings to stay away from East Coast beaches and estuaries and the West Coast area from Cape Reinga to Ahipara.

Mr Manley repeated earlier warnings from scientists that the first waves experienced during a tsunami event may not be the largest and that bigger waves – and strong tidal surges – could continue throughout the day and up to 12 hours after the first effects.

He says Northland Civil Defence, local authority, police, fire, ambulance and other officials have been monitoring the situation in Northland closely and have been contacting coastal communities throughout the region to alert them to situation.

He repeated earlier advice for Northland’s coastal areas:

1. Stay off beaches
2. Stay out of the water (sea, rivers and estuaries, including boating activities)
3. Do not go sightseeing
4. Share this information with family, neighbours and friends
5. Listen to the radio and/or TV for updates
6 Follow instructions of your local Civil Defence authorities

He says Northlanders should turn on their radios and listen to the advice/updates from Civil Defence. Local stations include:

ENDS

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