Directions for prevention (27) Beware of a 50 cm tsunami

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　In the Great East Japan Earthquake, tsunamis of 10 and 20 meters were observed. When you see such large numbers, a 50 cm tsunami may seem insignificant. But the reality is that 80% of men are swept away by a 50-centimeter tsunami, and 50% of women by a 30-centimeter tsunami.

　Unlike waves that move on the ocean's surface due to wind, tsunamis are high-energy waves in which the entire ocean water moves as a mass from the ocean floor to the surface. Even a tsunami of 20 to 30 centimeters can be very dangerous, as the fast current can cause you to lose your footing and be swept away.

　The Japan Meteorological Agency issues a tsunami warning if a tsunami of 20 centimeters or more is expected. When a warning is issued, leave the coast immediately.

　Tsunami slows down as the water gets shallower, but even close to the coast it can travel at the same speed as an Olympic sprinter. It is extremely difficult to escape after witnessing this.