Esquimalt is at low risk of experiencing a tsunami; however, if you live, work, or play in areas close to our shoreline you should be aware of potential hazards and how you can prepare for them.
In Greater Victoria, the most dangerous tsunami threat will follow a major earthquake.
- If you feel an earthquake that lasts longer than one minute or is strong enough to
make it difficult to stand you should know that a tsunami may have been generated. In this type of event, some areas close to the ocean may lie within the tsunami planning zones and may be at risk. - Check the following maps to find your home, place of work, school, or other places you visit regularly and see if they are located within the tsunami planning zones:
- Move inland out of the tsunami planning zone. You have about 90 minutes from the end of the shaking until the first series of tsunami waves could arrive here. You do not have to travel far to get to an area of safety.
For more information download a Tsunami Information brochure or pick-up a brochure at one of the municipal facilities.
Please note that the sirens located at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt are for CFB personnel for ALL types of emergencies, not just tsunami. If you hear a siren, it is important to check CFB information sources and the CFB Esquimalt website and social media channels for information on the type of emergeny and actions to take. More information on the sirens can be found here.