While the main UH Mānoa Campus is at low risk for threat of a tsunami, UHM has several coastal facilities that are potentially at risk from a tsunami event. Upon notification of a potential tsunami that may affect the state, government officials will activate warning protocols to inform the community of the threat. This may include the activation of public safety messages, as well as the activation of the civil defense sirens. Turn on the TV or radio for official messaging.

The island of Oʻahu is highly susceptible to tsunami and coastal flooding as these events have occurred many times in the past. Coastal areas where university facilities and vessels are located may be affected. Coastal flooding is also associated with hurricanes, high surf, and severe storms.

When a Tsunami or Coastal Flooding Occurs…

• If you live, work, play, or transit a low lying coastal area, be familiar with the location of the tsunami evacuation zone. The latest tsunami evacuation maps can be found on the State of Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency page.
• Always follow the advice of local emergency and law enforcement authorities. In the event of a tsunami, those living in an evacuation zone should leave their homes immediately.
• If you must evacuate your home, leave in an orderly and calm manner and proceed to the closest tsunami refuge center. A list of tsunami refuge centers is available online.
• If you are at the beach or near the ocean, and you feel the earth shake, move immediately inland to higher ground. DO NOT wait for a tsunami warning to be issued. Stay away from rivers and streams that lead to the ocean due to the potential for strong tsunami waves and currents.
• If roads are flooded, do not attempt to drive through the rising water. Vehicles can easily be swept away.
• Subscribe to the U.S. Tsunami Warning Center’s notification system to receive tsunami warning messages.

What to do in Case of…

Emergency Management State and Local Resources

For more information or inquiries, please contact Emergency Management Coordinator Jimmy Lagunero at lagunero@hawaii.edu or (808) 956-0773.