Program Name Tsunami Safety Video: “Tsunami:
Waves of Destruction”
Administering Agency Hawaii State Civil Defense
Contact Brian Yanagi, Earthquake Planner
Address 3949 Diamond Head Road, Honolulu, HI 96816-4495
Telephone Number 808-733-4301 ext. 552
Fax Number 808-733-4287
E-mail byanagi@scd.state.hi.us
Problem the Program Addresses:
In Hawaii from 1900 - 1964, eight destructive distantly generated tsunamis
from the Pacific Rim of Fire have struck the islands. More people have
lost their lives to tsunamis than in all other natural disasters combined.
In the 20th century, an estimated 221 people have been killed and
thousands injured. In 1946, an Alaska Aleutian Island earthquake generated
a distant tsunami that drowned 159 persons in Hawaii. In 1960, a Chile
earthquake generated a distant tsunami that drowned 61 persons in Hawaii.
In 1975, a locally generated tsunami off the Island of Hawaii killed two
campers. Tsunamis have caused millions of dollars in property damage.
However, an entire generation has grown without experiencing a destructive
statewide tsunami. Hawaii's heavily populated and developed coastal areas
are significantly at risk in the next destructive tsunami. Estimated
property losses would be in the billions.
This lack of public awareness of the tsunami threat will lead to deadly
consequences. During the 1986 and 1994 statewide tsunami evacuations,
thousands of people remained along the coastlines to watch the approach of
the waves. Moreover, hundreds of surfers jumped into the water hoping to
catch the wave. Although the 1986 and 1994 waves were non-destructive,
thousands of people put themselves at risk.
Nature of the Program:
The Civil Defense Tsunami Safety Video entitled, "Tsunami: Waves of
Destruction," presents the reality of the destructive force of tsunamis
through survivor interviews and historic photos. Scientific explanations
and graphics depict the tsunami phenomenon. A specific section of the
video targets spectators, surfers, and the boating community. Moreover,
emergency evacuation procedures are outlined.
Materials/Products of the Program:
Video Production. Time: 30 minute and 15 minute (shortened version)
Video is disseminated to school distant learning centers, libraries,
media, and public access and public television networks.
