Evacuation maps simplified

Northland’s tsunami evacuation maps have been updated with more accurate modelling and information.

Northland Civil Defence emergency management (NCDEM) group chair Kelly Stratford says the new maps better reflect how tsunamis are expected to behave as they travel across the ocean and reach the Northland coastline.

“The new modelling shows that the areas at risk from damaging tsunami may be affected differently from previous models,” Stratford says. “In many cases, the potential effects may not reach as far inland as previously expected.

“The new tsunami wave modelling is based on the latest data, scientific evidence and modelling technology. This method is now the standard and used in other regions in New Zealand and around the world.

“The goal is for this information to enable Northlanders to understand the risk to their property and community so they can plan accordingly.”

However, Stratford says that even though the effects might not reach as far inland, the coastal risk for the region remains high so those in coastal communities or anyone enjoying the beaches and marine areas of Taitokerau need to remain prepared.

Due to its unique geography, the Northland region is considered to have one of the highest vulnerabilities to tsunami hazards in the country. Northland was one of the first regions to implement a three-zone tsunami evacuation plan, with tsunami inundation maps and models more than 10 years ago.

This project also complements the recent upgrade of the Northland tsunami siren network, which covers important at-risk coastal regions.

“The new siren placement ensures that not only the new evacuation zone is covered, but people near the zone or moving towards it can also hear the warnings and stay away from the coast and potentially affected areas.”

Stratford said the new maps were simpler to understand, moving from a three-colour system to a single colour system.

“If your home, workplace, school, marae, or somewhere you visit regularly is in the blue zone, in a tsunami, get out of the area. Head inland or to higher ground.”

The single evacuation zone is coloured blue to symbolise where water could reach in a tsunami.

Remember:

• Blue means GO – In a tsunami warning, get out of the blue. Knowing your evacuation zone in advance is really important so you can plan and understand your evacuation route.
• If an earthquake is Long or Strong: Get Gone. Don’t wait for an official warning to evacuate. Head to higher ground or further inland.
• Be prepared. Check tsunami preparedness tips and what to do before, during and after a tsunami at: getready.govt.nz/emergency/tsunami

What are the natural warning signs for a tsunami?

• If you are near a shore and experience any of the following, take action. Do not wait for official warnings.
• Feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand or a long earthquake that lasts more than a minute
• See a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• Hear loud or unusual noises from the sea
• Tsunami signboards at beaches and waterways around Northland will also be updated with the new maps over the next few months.

To view the evacuation maps, go to: www.nrc.govt.nz/evacuationzones