30 Sept. 2009
12:00 noon

Civil Defence
Media Statement

Due to the recent 8.3 magnitude earthquake in Samoa, the Canterbury Emergency Management Group is monitoring the current tsunami situation closely.

The Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management has issued another tsunami advisory regarding a second wave, recorded at Raol Island which is located north of the North Island, to be larger than the first wave. The reports are that this wave is approximately 1 metre.

Mr. Jon Mitchell, Emergency Coordination Centre Duty Manager, says that despite this second wave, we are cautiously optimistic at this point that there will be no damage in Canterbury. However, this situation is evolving very quickly and people need to remain vigilant and keep informed as subsequent waves are likely and may be larger.

According to University of Canterbury Tsunami Expert Derek Todd, a one metre maximum tsunami is possible at this time. However, this is unlikely at this point to cause damage as this is likely to arrive at mid-tide.

Beaches and river mouths should still be avoided until further notice.

Emergency Operations Centres throughout the Canterbury region are continuing to monitor the situation.

ENDS

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