Japan quake - no tsunami threat to NZ

Civil Defence have advised there's no tsunami threat to New Zealand following a 7.3 quake near the east coast of Japan this morning.

Meanwhile here's an update about tsunami alerts in general for New Zealand.

Civil Defence are exploring a public alerting system that would push out public safety alerts to mobile phones.

Civil Defence have assessed a range of alerting systems and each has pros and cons. They have concluded that alerting through mobile phones presents the best balance of wide reach and reliability.

A mobile phone based system will mean you don’t have to subscribe or purchase any special equipment.

If you are in an affected area and have a modern mobile phone you will receive the message

Over the coming months Civil Defence will continue to work on implementing this nationwide system.

Remember, if you feel an earthquake that makes it hard to stand up or lasts for longer than a minute, hear unusual noises from the sea or see a significant change in sea level, you should immediately move inland or to high ground. Do not wait for official warnings.

These natural warning signs are often the best warning of a tsunami.

ends

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