Hawaii Tsunami Update: Governor Green on Wave Activity and Safety Measures

Tsunami Threat Assessment

• 🌊 No wave of consequence has been reported in Hawaii so far, bringing a great relief to officials.
• ⚠️ Significant water recession was observed in Holly Eva, with two waves measured at the Midway Atoll, including one with a 3 ft amplitude and a total height of 6 ft.
• 🎯 Officials are awaiting confirmation from the Big Island and the full wraparound of the islands before considering the situation clear.

Safety and Public Guidance

• 🚨 Do not call 911 unless for a genuine emergency to keep the line available.
• 🚗 Avoid all non-essential travel; do not get on the road unless necessary and lay low.
• ⛰️ If in a coastal area, be prepared to move at least 100 ft above sea level or 2 miles inland.

Transportation and Infrastructure

• ✈️ While airports have not been impacted by waves, all flights in and out of Maui have been cancelled for the night.
• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Approximately 200 people are sheltering at the Maui Airport terminal, with plans to accommodate them comfortably.
• 💡 There have been no reports of power loss, and no plans to shut off power are in place at this time.

Official Response and Monitoring

• 🛰️ HEO continues to monitor the situation closely.
• 📞 Another briefing is scheduled for 9:00 PM, with further updates expected from officials.
• 🤝 The state is working in unison with various entities, including the Red Cross, and community involvement is highlighted as a positive response to the threat.

Expert Input and Indicators

• 🔬 The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center provides the most important input for determining an all clear.
• 📈 Wave measurements across the Pacific and islands range from 0.23 meters to over a meter, with the largest observed wave in Holly Eva being over a meter.
• 🌊 The receding shoreline, where water pulled back 20-30 feet, was a significant indicator of ocean activity, historically preceding larger waves.
• ✅ The all clear will signify reaching functional zero risk, with waves no longer generating significant activity or inundating coastlines.