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Information provided by Ready.gov |
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The U.S. Virgin Islands, along with the rest of the Caribbean, is considered a region with high levels of vulnerability and
threat for tsunamis. Tsunamis are enormous
waves caused by an underground disturbance
such as an earthquake. They can move hundreds
of miles per hour, and hit land with waves
topping 100 feet in height.
Since 1842 at more than 3,500 people have lost their lives to tsunamis in the Caribbean. In recent years, there has been an explosive population growth and influx of tourists along the Caribbean coasts increasing the tsunami vulnerability of the region. Other events, such as the earthquakes and tsunamis in the Indian Ocean (2004), Samoa (2009, Haiti and Chile (2010) and Japan (2011), attest to the importance of proper planning for tsunami response.
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Understanding the difference between the terms that identify a tsunami hazard: advisory, watch and warning. For a detailed explanation of these terms, see
http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/tsunamis.shtm.
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Plan to act quickly.
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If you are in coastal waters and notice a dramatic recession of water from the shoreline you should heed nature's warning that a tsunami is approaching.
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Move inland immediately and do not return to the flooded and damaged areas until officials say it is safe to do so.
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Visit NOAA Watch for more weather-related information.
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STAY
Informed
Local authorities may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, you should listen to
NOAA Weather
Radio, watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet often for official news and instructions as they become available.
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