How to Survive a Tidal Wave

Several years have gone by, but the images of the Indian Ocean tsunami, otherwise known as a tidal wave, remain fresh in the mind. Tidal waves are extraordinarily dangerous phenomena, but if you know the warning signs, you have a good chance of surviving a tidal wave.

Instructions

• 1

  Understand what constitutes a tidal wave and what causes one. Tidal waves travel hundreds of miles an hour and have the potential to be hundreds of feet tall, although most top out at about 40 feet. Tidal waves can be caused by hurricane conditions, earthquakes, or the perfect alignment of the sun and moon causing a gravitational pull. Landslides, volcanic eruptions and even a meteorite crashing to the earth can also cause tidal waves.

• 2

  Know what the forewarning terms that the media uses mean. A tidal wave advisory means an event such as an earthquake has occurred that may cause a tidal wave. A tidal wave watch indicates that waves have been spotted but are more than two hours from your area. A warning means dangerous-sized waves have been spotted and immediate action is required.

• 3

  Evacuate quickly, moving inland and to the highest ground possible. Turn off water, electricity and gas before you leave your home. Even if one wave has passed, don't waste time trying to save possessions because tidal waves come quickly and the second is usually bigger and stronger than the first.

• 4

  Watch the beach and shorelines for a noticeable decline in the water level if you are outdoors without a radio or television. A sudden decrease in sea level indicates that a tidal wave is about to hit. Leave immediately because you may only have minutes.

• 5

  Wait for authorities to say it's OK to return to your home after tidal waves. After you return, check for gas leaks and broken electrical wires before letting your family enter. Check all food and water for contamination before consuming anything, and stay away from any debris floating in the floodwaters.