Posted: 12 March 2011
Coastal Communities Warned of Tsunami Threat
Coastal communities around Northland have been notified of the tsunami marine warning issued by the Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management (MCDEM) in response to an earthquake (magnitude 8.9) off the coast of Japan just before 7pm yesterday.
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The region’s three district councils have notified key contacts listed in their Community Response Plans, and contestants and visitors staying on the coast for the 90 Mile Beach Snapper Classic fishing tournament have also been informed.
The marine threat – with wave heights up to an estimated 1 metre – means strong and unusual currents are possible in the sea, river mouths and estuaries and all Northland coastal residents are being warned to stay off beaches.
Tony Phipps Group Controller Northland CDEM Group, says the estimated wave arrival time for the North Cape is 0623 this morning (Saturday 12 March 2011).
“We are asking all coastal residents and visitors to stay off the beaches, out of the water and not to go sightseeing along our coast,” says Mr Phipps.
Northlanders are being asked to share this information with family, neighbours and friends and to listen to the radio and/or TV for updates.
The first waves are estimated to coincide with low tide on the east coast (0709 at Marsden Point). Low tide on the west coast - at Pouto Point – is at 0951.
Mr Phipps says the estimated wave heights of between 20 centimetres and 1 metre refer to the maximum water level relevant to normal sea level at the beach.
“The first wave may arrive later and may not be the largest with tsunami activity, such as unusual currents and changes in sea-level, continuing for several hours.”