Media Release
30 September 2009
1500 hours

Tsunami Potential Threat Advisory Update
The Ministry of Civil Defence & Emergency Management (MCDEM) issued a Tsunami Warning following the Samoa earthquake at 0648 this morning. This was subsequently downgraded to a Potential Threat Advisory.

The Potential Threat Advisory remains in place. MCDEM is assessing information further with the assistance of scientific advisors. Tsunami wave activity is still being recorded at East Cape, North Cape and the Chatham Islands at a similar height to our last report. Smaller wave activity is now also being recorded at Gisborne.

There is now a low possibility of waves higher than those recorded up to now. The expectation is that waves will continue over the next eight hours but they may be of similar or lesser height. There is still an ongoing threat of strong currents affecting coastal areas. People should remain clear of beaches and refrain from boating activities.

ENDS

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