Tsunamis are powerful waves triggered by underwater earthquakes, landslides, or volcanic activity.
They can strike with little warning, flooding coastal areas and causing widespread destruction.
AUW 211 connects Hawaiʻi residents with real-time alerts, shelter locations, and recovery resources before, during, and after a tsunami.
If you are in immediate danger, please dial 911!
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Communities Impacted
Tsunamis can impact anyone near the coastline, but some areas and groups are at higher risk:
- Residents in tsunami evacuation zones or coastal lowlands
- People living near bays, harbors, or river mouths where waves can travel inland
- Tourists or visitors unfamiliar with local warning sirens or evacuation routes
- Older adults, children, and people with limited mobility who may need extra time to evacuate
- Residents without vehicles or access to transportation during an evacuation
Where can I go?
If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
If you’re safe but need non-emergency help, call 211 for local resources.
Safe locations include
- Official tsunami evacuation shelters listed by your county
- High ground outside the evacuation zone
- Designated vertical evacuation structures (multi-story concrete buildings) in coastal areas
- Pet-friendly shelters, if available — check with your county’s emergency management office
If a tsunami warning is issued, immediately move inland or to higher ground — do not wait for instructions. Never go to the shoreline to “watch” the waves.
What can I do to prepare?
Preparation saves lives. Know your evacuation zone and plan ahead.
- Learn your tsunami evacuation routes — practice them with your household
- Prepare a 14-day emergency supply kit (food, water, medications, flashlight, batteries, radio)
- Keep important documents and valuables in a waterproof container
- If you live in a coastal area, identify two evacuation routes in case one is blocked
- Sign up for county and HI-EMA alert systems for siren and text notifications
- Discuss evacuation plans with neighbors, especially those needing extra help
- Know the natural warning signs: strong or long ground shaking, sudden ocean retreat, or a loud roar
What can AUW 211 provide?
Aloha United Way 211 connects you to trusted, local resources during and after a Tsunami:
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Shelter and evacuation site information
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Food, water, and emergency supply assistance
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Crisis counseling and mental health support
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Cleanup, repair, and disaster recovery programs
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Financial assistance referrals for families affected by earthquake damage
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Language support and accessibility services for non-English speakers and people with disabilities
Call 211 or search online for live help, 7 days a week.
How can I help my neighbor?
Tsunamis can devastate entire communities — recovery is faster when we help each other.
- Check on kupuna, people with disabilities, or families with young children in your area
- Offer transportation or translation help to neighbors who may need it
- Share only verified information from official channels
- Donate to Aloha United Way’s Disaster Relief Fund or other trusted local charities
- Volunteer for recovery efforts once officials declare it safe
Quick Resources
Need help right now? These official resources can connect you with emergency alerts, shelters, and support in your area.
Dial 911 for life-threatening emergencies.
Dial 211 for non-emergency help and local resources.