Tsunamis
Preparedness is Part of Coastal Living
Tsunamis are powerful ocean waves most commonly caused by underwater earthquakes, but they can also result from landslides or volcanic eruptions. As a coastal community, Tofino is considered a high-risk area for tsunamis, particularly those that could follow a major seismic event along the Cascadia Subduction Zone. While tsunamis are rare, they can arrive quickly and with devastating force, making it essential to understand the warning signs and know how to respond.
What to Expect:
- Natural warning signs: Prolonged shaking, unusual ocean behaviour, or sudden water recession.
- Official alerts: Issued through sirens, text messages, radio, and the BC Emergency Alert System.
How to Prepare:
- Familiarize yourself with Tofino’s tsunami evacuation routes and high-ground locations.
- Keep a grab-and-go emergency bag ready for each member of your household.
During a Tsunami Warning:
- Move immediately to higher ground and remain there until authorities issue an "all-clear."
- Avoid beaches and other low-lying coastal areas.
Understanding Local vs Distant Tsunamis
Not all tsunamis are the same, and knowing the difference can save lives. Local tsunamis can arrive within minutes of a nearby earthquake, while distant tsunamis may take several hours to reach our shores, giving more time to prepare. Understanding which type is occurring helps determine how quickly you need to act.
Local Tsunamis
Local tsunamis are generated by nearby seismic activity, typically along the Cascadia Subduction Zone, just off the west coast of Vancouver Island. These tsunamis are particularly dangerous because they can reach Tofino's shoreline within 15 to 30 minutes after the earthquake. There may not be time for an official warning, so individuals must recognize natural warning signs and respond immediately. These signs include:
- Strong or prolonged ground shaking
- Unusual ocean behaviour (water rapidly receding or surging)
- A loud ocean roar
If you experience any of these signs, do not wait for an alert—evacuate to high ground immediately and stay there until officials declare it safe to return.
Distant Tsunamis
Distant tsunamis originate from seismic events far across the Pacific Ocean, such as in Alaska, Japan, or South America. Because these waves take several hours to reach the British Columbia coastline, emergency officials have time to monitor and issue alerts. You will receive warnings through:
- BC Emergency Alert System
- Voyent Alert! notifications
- Local warning sirens
In these cases, follow instructions from emergency officials carefully. Time is on your side, but early action is still critical. Prepare to evacuate, bring your emergency supplies, and support those around you, especially visitors unfamiliar with the area.
Tsunami Warning Levels
Tsunami warnings come in different levels, each with specific instructions to help keep you safe. Understanding what each alert means can help you respond and know when to evacuate.
Stay Informed
- Emergency Information page
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- Alert Systems: Voyent Alert!
- EmergencyInfoBC: Website | X