Hawaii residents and Visitors Advised to Shelter in Place During Tsunami Warnings
During a tsunami warning, the safest course of action for residents and visitors in Hawaii is to stay where you are and avoid driving, according to emergency management officials. This guidance stems from experiences during past tsunami events, where attempts to evacuate by car led to gridlock and increased risk.
The July 29, 2025, Tsunami Warning and Traffic Congestion
A tsunami warning on July 29, 2025, highlighted the dangers of attempting mass evacuations by road. The resulting traffic congestion hampered movement and potentially placed individuals in greater danger. Hawaii News Now covered the event extensively, documenting the widespread gridlock across the state.
Why Driving is Dangerous During a Tsunami Warning
Rick Egged, president of the Waikiki Betterment Association, emphasizes that congested roads during a tsunami warning are counterproductive. “Don’t go on the roads because the traffic is going to be totally backed up,” Egged stated. “You’re not going to get from one place to another.You’re probably safest to stay where you are.” Attempting to drive during a tsunami warning can leave individuals stranded in high-risk areas with limited options.
Hotels as Safe Shelters
Hotels in Hawaii are designed to withstand tsunamis and are considered safe shelters. Jerry dolak, head of security at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, advises both guests and employees to remain in the building during an emergency. “We brought up that the hotels are probably your best sheltering option, and the employees should consider the same and stay there until the threat’s over,” Dolak explained. Abandoning a vehicle in a tsunami zone to seek a safe location on foot is a last resort, but preferable to being stuck in traffic.
preparing for a Tsunami: creating an Emergency Plan
Proactive planning is crucial. Residents and visitors should develop a personal emergency plan before a tsunami warning is issued. This includes:
- Knowing Evacuation Routes: while staying put is generally advised, understand designated evacuation zones and routes in case your location is directly threatened. The Hawaii Emergency management Agency (HIEMA) provides detailed data on tsunami hazards and evacuation zones.
- Assembling an Emergency Kit: Include water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days), non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, and any necessary medications. Ready.gov offers a comprehensive checklist for building an emergency kit.
- Staying Informed: Monitor official news sources and emergency broadcasts for updates and instructions.
Key Takeaways
- shelter in Place: The primary suggestion during a tsunami warning is to stay where you are.
- Avoid Driving: Roads will likely be congested, hindering evacuation and potentially placing you in greater danger.
- Hotels are Safe: Hotels are designed to withstand tsunamis and provide a secure shelter.
- Prepare in Advance: Develop an emergency plan and assemble a kit before a warning is issued.
Understanding Tsunami Warnings
A tsunami is a series of ocean waves caused by large-scale disturbances, such as underwater earthquakes, landslides, or volcanic eruptions. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Management (NOAA) provides detailed information about tsunamis,including how they are generated and detected. Hawaii’s location makes it notably vulnerable to tsunamis originating from the pacific Ring of Fire.
By following the guidance of emergency management officials and preparing in advance, residents and visitors can significantly increase their safety during a tsunami warning.