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Tsunami — Emergency Warning
FMI Port 3 Tsunami - Evacuate before 3:30 pm Fri 08 Mar

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NSW State Emergency Service

NSW State Emergency Service

Emergency Warning

Evacuate before 3:30 pm Fri 08 Mar

Emergency Warning

The NSW SES is directing people in the following area(s) to EVACUATE BEFORE 3:30 pm Fri 08 Mar due to a tsunami large enough to flood marine and low-lying coastal areas:

  • Kingston, Norfolk Island
  • Port Kembla, NSW
  • Spring Bay, Tasmania

Evacuation Information

You should evacuate to stay with family, friends, or alternate accommodation in areas unaffected by land inundation.

What are we expecting?

The Bureau of Meteorology advises there has been report that pilots experienced unusual surge and current movements in and around the port area. Both in the harbour and in the approaches to the harbour over a prolonged period of time.

This had significant effect on ship movements through the harbour which was managed by prudent tug use. This event is similar to but more drawn out and confused than the Chilean Tsunami of February last year where we experienced a surge approximately 2 days after the earthquake.

If you remain in the area, you may become trapped without power, water, and other essential services and it may be too dangerous for NSW SES to rescue you. Most buildings are not strong enough to stand up to the amount of water or debris caused by land inundation.

What you need to do:

  • Go immediately to high ground at least ten metres (10m) above sea level AND move one kilometre (1km) away from beaches, coastal rock platforms and water frontage of harbours, coastal streams, and lakes AND move a further ten kilometres (10kms) upstream from coastal estuaries and rivers.
  • If you are unable to reach high ground, take shelter in an upper storey of a sturdy brick or concrete building.
  • Take only essential items that you can carry including important papers, family photographs and medical needs.
  • Gather your pet(s) for safe travel.
  • Boats in harbours, estuaries or shallow coastal water should return to shore. Secure your boat and move away from the waterfront.
  • Vessels already out to sea should stay offshore in water at least 25 metres deep until further advised.
  • Walk to safety if possible to avoid traffic jams.
  • Obey all signs about road, beach and foreshore closures, and instructions from emergency services.
  • If you have a Home or Business Emergency Plan, refer to it now.
  • Check to see if your neighbours are aware of this advice.

For more information:

For emergency help in floods, storms and tsunamis, call the NSW State Emergency Service on 132 500. In life threatening situations, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Media enquiries: [email protected] or call 1800 067 234