Japanese manga artist Ryo Tatsu (Ryuu Jyurou) has predicted the possibility of a major disaster on July 5. In response, Taiwan’s Meteorological Agency stated that regardless of whether the prediction comes true, being more alert and prepared for disasters is always a good thing. The agency further pointed out that if a tsunami really hits, strictly following four principles will greatly increase your chances of survival.
● Go Higher, Go Inland, Find Sturdy Shelter, Hold On Tight
On its Facebook fan page “Report Earthquake,” Taiwan’s Meteorological Agency explained that in Taiwan, tsunami alerts may be issued through television, radio, cell broadcast messages, and other channels. Once you receive a tsunami warning or alert, absolutely do not stay where you are—immediately follow the four principles: “Go higher, go inland, find sturdy shelter, hold on tight!”
The agency further elaborated: If there happens to be a tall building or hillside nearby, head for higher ground. It is recommended to stay in an area above the third floor (about 10 meters high) and wait quietly until the alert is lifted. If there is no higher ground nearby, move inland and try to get as far from the coastline as possible. For short distances, it is not recommended to drive to avoid traffic jams impeding evacuation or being swept away by the tsunami along with your car.
The agency stated that if the tsunami occurs and you are unfortunately at the beach or in a low-lying area and truly unable to escape in time, it is advised to seek shelter in a sturdy building on the spot and open all doors and windows as much as possible to reduce the impact of the tsunami on the building. If you are swept into the water by the tsunami, try to grab hold of large floating objects or climb onto relatively high, fixed objects nearby and wait for rescue.
The agency emphasized: Do not return to the original location immediately after the first wave of the tsunami ends, as there could be a second or third wave, which may not arrive within just a few minutes—there could be a gap of several hours. It is recommended that people continue to monitor tsunami information from the meteorological agency, and only return after the message “Tsunami Warning Lifted” or “Tsunami Alert Lifted” is issued.
The agency reminded the public that after the sea has receded, if you notice facilities or buildings destroyed by the tsunami, do not approach, to avoid secondary injury from potential collapse. After receiving a tsunami alert, do not approach the shore to watch waves out of curiosity, or return home specifically to retrieve belongings so as not to delay evacuation.