The Center for the Study of Active Volcanoes is a training and outreach program located at the University of Hawaii at Hilo. Our emphasis has always been to provide information on volcanic hazards that occur in Hawaii and worldwide, but we have expanded our program to include other natural hazards as well: earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, tsunamis, and brush fires. There are many web pages that describe the science of natural hazards, and we provide links to these pages. Our hazards web pages emphasize natural hazards in Hawaii and the mitigation steps you can take to protect your property, home and family. You can't stop a natural disaster, but by preparing now, you can lessen its impact on you.
September 29, 2009 Tsunami
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Samoan communities devastated by this tsunami.
Here on the Big Island, a Tsunami Watch was issued immediately after the earthquake. Once scientists had determined that Hawaii would not be hit by a large tsunami, the Watch was cancelled. In anticipation of large wave surges, however, Civil Defense wisely closed all beach parks on the island, and County workers efficiently coned off the beach areas.
By mid-afternoon, wave surges began to arrive. In Kona, Captain Kurt Bell of the Fair Wind was at the Keauhou Boat Harbor, and shot a sequence of amazing photos as the surge rushed in over the cement dock.
(1) Local residents enjoy a view of the waves approaching the harbor.
(2) As the waves cover the dock, a fisherman is amazed to find himself knee-deep in water.
(3) The parking lot floods. Always remain far inland during a tsunami watch or warning. Even if a tsunami is non-destructive, surge can be dangerous.
(4) The fisherman realizes he should move to higher ground, so he drives uphill, passing a tourist who is heading for his rental car.
(5) The water retreats from the concrete dock.
(6) Note the wooden pier by the concrete dock.
(7) Note the zodiac in the far left, floating in shallow water as the water retreats.
(8) As the surge of water returns, the zodiac is lifted high, and the wooden pier is underwater.
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