Tsunami Threat to New Zealand Confirmed for Early Morning Sunday 28th February

#ChileQuake National Warning: Tsunami Threat to NZ Update 6

01:20HRSNZDT 28 Feb 2010
Tsunami confirmed

Confirmation has been received that a tsunami was generated from the 8.8 magnitude 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.

Based on preliminary modelling and comparison with historical events the interpretation of the Tsunami Experts Panel is that a marine threat (i.e. threat to beach and small boats) 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 (i.e. wave heights between 1 and 3 metres) for the Chatham Islands and Banks Peninsula. 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.

People in coastal areas should:

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.

The National Crisis Management Centre in Wellington has been activated. MCDEM and scientific advisors are closely monitoring the situation to determine the severity of the threat to New Zealand

NZ Civil Defence