How do I recognise a tsunami?
In most cases you will not be able to recognise an upcoming tsunami at all. A destructive tsunami can arrive completely unexpected. Irrespective of technical warning systems, in some cases there are natural warning signs, which precede the arrival of a tsunami wave. Whenever one or a combination of the following phenomena can be observed, the probability of a tsunami is extremely high and it is strongly advisable to evacuate to high ground: • a heavy earthquake – when you are barely able to stay on your feet • an unexpected retreat of the sea, revealing large stretches of the sea bottom • a loud rumbling like the sound of a train or airplane However, it must be pointed out that in most cases it is too late for escape when a tsunami wave hits the coast, due to the high speed of the water ashore. Therefore, you should take immediate safety action to save your life as soon as a warning is released.
