Update from Civil Defence

National Warning: Tsunami Threat to Beach and Marine Areas
Saturday 9 Sep - last updated 6:21 am

A beach and marine tsunami threat warning is in effect for Chatham Islands, Pegasus Bay, Northern Coasts of Hawke's Bay and East Cape following the 8.2M earthquake near Chiapas Mexico on 9 September at 4.49pm.

Whilst initial assessment was that there was no tsunami threat we are now advised after further modelling that a beach and marine threat exists for the above areas.

Unusually strong and hazardous currents and unpredictable surges are expected near the shore. This means a threat to beach, harbour, estuary and small boat activities.

The severity of currents and surges will vary within a particular coastal area and over the period this warning is in effect.

Coastal inundation is not expected.

There is no need to evacuate.

The first tsunami activity may reach New Zealand in the areas around Chatham Islands and East Cape at approximately 0700 hours 09 September 2017 NZST. This may be later and the first activity may not be the most significant. Strong currents and surges will continue for up to 24 hours and the threat must be regarded as real until this warning is cancelled.

Full posting at:     Home » Ministry of Civil Defence and Emergency Management