Tsunami Information

The threat of tsunami activity in Southwest Alaska is real.  Earthquakes almost anywhere in the Pacific Ocean have the potential of generating deadly tsunami waves.  The waves, varying from several inches to several feet, can devastate low-lying communities and residences.  This portion of the KSDPradio.com website is intended to provide information to our listening area about potential tsunami activity.  In the event of a tsunami advisory, stay tuned to 830 AM KSDP for updated information.  Sand Point residents can also tune in to NOAA Weather Radio Sand Point (162.55 mHz) to stay informed.

West Coast & Alaska Tsunami Messages
The West Coast and Alaska Tsunami Warning Center (WCATWC) is based in Palmer, Alaska and is the federal office charged with issuing tsunami bulletins.  These bulletins are frequently updated during a period of potential tsunami activity.  WCATWC Most Recent Messages

Tsunami Terminology

In the event of a potential tsunami, bulletins will be issued by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  Local authorities are given the responsibility of determining if and when to evacuate residents to safer ground.  The following terms are used, in ascending order of severity, in relation to a potential tsunami : Tsunami Advisory An earthquake has occurred in the Pacific basin, which might generate a tsunami. Tsunami Watch A tsunami was or may have been generated, but is at least two hours travel time to the area in Watch status. Tsunami Warning A tsunami was, or may have been generated, which could cause damage; therefore, people in the warned area are strongly advised to evacuate. source : http://www.fema.gov/hazard/tsunami/ts_terms.shtm

Tsunami Preparedness and Response

Proper precaution and response in case of tsunami activity can save lives.  KSDP encourages our listeners to act according to the below recommendations in advance of, or in response to, a tsunami.  The following are guidelines for what you should do if a tsunami is likely in your area: Turn on your radio to learn if there is a tsunami warning if an earthquake occurs and you are in a coastal area.  KSDP staff members will be on the air to advise residents in an emergency situation.  Information is also available on NOAA Weather Radio Sand Point (162.55 mHz).  Move inland to higher ground immediately and stay there.  In the event of an evacuation order in Sand Point, proceed in a calm and orderly manner to the Sand Point School. Stay away from the beach.  Never go down to the beach to watch a tsunami come in.  If you can see the wave you are too close to escape it.  If you can hear or see a tsunami, you will not be able to escape it.  CAUTION - If there is noticeable recession in water away from the shoreline this is nature's tsunami warning and it should be heeded. You should move away immediately. The following are guidelines for the period following a tsunami: Stay away from flooded and damaged areas until officials say it is safe to return.  Stay tuned to KSDP for updates from local emergency officials.  Stay away from debris in the water; it may pose a safety hazard to boats and people. Save yourself - not your possessions.  Belongings can be replaced, people can not.  source : http://www.fema.gov/hazard/tsunami/