THE TSUNAMI THREAT TO THE FOLLOWING AREAS IS STILL IN EFFECT.
For people in coastal areas of New South Wales, Lord Howe Island and Norfolk
Island.
An earthquake of preliminary magnitude 8.1 occurred at 06:40 am EST this morning
near the Solomon Islands, [epicentre 8.6S, 157.2E] and has generated a tsunami.
A series of waves associated with this tsunami may impact Australia today,
reaching Norfolk Island from now, Midday [Norfolk Island time], Lord Howe Island
from 11:00 am [Lord Howe Island time] and the NSW coastline starting from
between now and midday. Dangerous waves and currents may continue for several
hours after the time of initial impact. The Sydney region impact is most likely
from around 11:30 am EST onwards.
Dangerous waves and currents may affect beaches, harbours and rivers for several
hours from the time of impact and low-lying coastal areas could be flooded. The
waves can be separated in time by between ten to sixty minutes and the first
wave of the series may not be the largest.
The NSW State Emergency Service advises that:
· People at the beach should leave the beach, and any areas exposed to surf, and
move to higher ground.
· People in boats in shallow water should immediately return to land, secure
vessels and move to higher ground.
· Boats and ships at sea should move to deep water and not return to harbour
until advised that it is safe to do so.
· If you see the sea go out like a very low tide then immediately go to high
ground.
· People should keep listening to the local media for updated information and
advice and follow instructions and advice from emergency services
This warning will be updated by 1pm EST.
This warning is also available through TV and Radio broadcasts; the Bureau's
website at www.bom.gov.au or call 1300 659 218
The Bureau and NSW State Emergency Service would appreciate this warning being
broadcast regularly.
