10 Tsunami Prep Steps Before the Wave Hits

Tsunami risk is real on the Pacific coast. I prep. This piece lists 10 things. I speak from years in the field. We move.

1. Know your tsunami risk zone

Know your tsunami risk zone.

Use official maps. Identify Red, Yellow, Green zones. Plan multiple routes to high ground. Practice the route on foot. Signs exist. Santa Cruz County updated evacuation signage in September 2025. I remember a drill in heavy rain.

2. Monitor warning systems and alerts

Monitor warning systems and alerts.

Sign up for alert systems. Have a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert. Familiarize yourself with local sirens. NOAA updated protocols. Smartphone push notifications joined the system. Smartphone alerts improve readiness. I have seen communities miss fast moves when alerts failed to reach everyone.

3. Recognize natural warning signs

Recognize natural warning signs.

Earthquake hits. Water withdraws suddenly. Ocean exposure occurs. A loud roar rises. Act on natural signs. Public campaigns empahsize signs. I recall a drill focused on signs.

4. Prepare and practice a family emergency plan

Prepare and practice a family emergency plan.

Establish a family plan. Set up an out-of-state contact. Designate meeting spots. Practice evacuation drills. Practice at night. FEMA released updated workbook. I use it with families.

5. Assemble a disaster supply kit

Assemble a disaster supply kit.

Assemble water and food kits. Water requires 1 gallon per person per day for 3 days. Include non-perishable food for 3 days. Keep a battery radio. Include a flashlight and extra batteries. Pack a first aid kit. Include antibacterial wipes and sanitation supplies. Copy important documents. Wear walking shoes. Carry medications. Keep cash. 72-hour kits grow.

6. Review insurance and financial preparedness

Review insurance and financial preparedness.

Homeowner’s insurance excludes tsunami flood. NFIP enrollments rise 19% from January to September 2025. California and Hawaii see the biggest gains. Ask for NFIP details. Review coverage gaps. Update policies as needed.

7. Secure your home and critical infrastructure

Secure your home and critical infrastructure.

Move valuables above flood level. Anchor heavy furniture. Protect hazardous materials. Secure equipment. Submit building work orders. Grant programs support retrofits.

8. Stay informed with official sources and drills

Stay informed with official sources and drills.

Participate in annual drills. Review local Emergency Operations Plans. Study hazard maps. Drill participation grows. Oregon, California, and Alaska logged over 110,000 households in October 2025 drills. I’m surprised how many households still skip drills, numbers tell you who plans ahead.

9. Educate yourself and others

Educate yourself and others.

Study FEMA IS-326. Follow Red Cross tips. Consult CalOES guidance. Review Alaska resilience resources. I look for fresh, primary sources before I share anything.

10. Use lessons learned and stay ready

Use lessons learned and stay ready.

Evaluate lessons. Update plans. Improve readiness. Today’s data point: coastal flood policy enrollments up 19% in 2025, and Great ShakeOut drills show broad engagement in October. I have seen that prep pays when the wave comes.

Comment today. See you next time.

Luke Harper

I am very prepper, to be honest. Nowadays I give training courses with practices in the middle of nature. I love nature and making handmade tools with things I have on hand. I want to teach my techniques, what I have in mind for the days that may come and I like to share news about the prepper world. By the way, as an ex-military I have to tell you, fitness and self-defense training is also a must if you want to be a good prepper.