According to the dictionary, definition of a tsunami: a long high sea wave caused by an earthquake, submarine landslide, or other disturbance.
Never thought this would have to be in my immediate vocabulary. We always hear about them and how destructive they are around the world - never did I think this California girl would be practicing for a tsunami. In California, we were taught what to do for a fire (I better know what to do or I would be disowned - considering my dad and brother are in the fire department). Anyway, we were also taught to be prepared for an earthquake, or an intruder. Those were the three situations I grew up practicing. In addition to those, I can now add tsunami training... Hoping I will never have to actually execute, though.
Last week, Tuesday, we had a tsunami warning- siren went off and everything because there was a supposed to be an earth quake taking place in Kodiac. So the school evacuated and went to the safe area, only to find out later that it was a false alarm. But, without the false alarm, we would not have known how unprepared we were for this type of emergency. Now the Staff has gathered and brained-stormed and we have a plan of attack ready, and needed equipment and supplies have been ordered to help us become better at the execution.
Detour: Back in 1964, an earthquake lasting four minutes and thirty eight seconds, was recorded as the most powerful earthquake in the United States and North America... Was measured to have a magnitude of 9.2 which is the second strongest earthquake in record history. This was in South East Alaska where I am located in Nanwalek. The map below shows other cities/villages that were impacted.
Needless to say this is one drill I never would of thought I needed to practice or be aware of, but now I know. I can add it to my list of experiences and makes for an even more entertaining adventure.
Hope you had your seat belts on for that one!
