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Tsunami Preparedness: A Community’s Vigilance in Tofino, B.C.
This week marks Tsunami Preparedness Week, a time when communities, particularly those in vulnerable coastal regions, focus on their readiness for potential tsunami threats. In Tofino, British Columbia, local leaders and residents are taking these preparations to heart.
“Living on the coast here in Tofino means being ready for emergencies, and that sentiment is shared among families, children, and even our visitors,” shared Tofino Mayor Dan Law. The town, situated on the western shore of Vancouver Island, is a beloved vacation destination that sees its population swell from around 2,500 to nearly double during the peak summer season.
Tofino faces unique risks of tsunami inundation, as outlined by Katsu Goda, an associate professor of earth sciences at Western University. “The geographical layout is quite exposed; with minimal elevation around the area, evacuation times would be limited to about 10 to 20 minutes,” he explained. “Many residents are elderly or young children, and a tsunami could strike at night.” Given the flatness of the coastal landscape, Goda noted that scientific assessments indicate a severe tsunami could indeed result in extensive flooding.
Community Engagement in Emergency Preparedness
In response to these risks, Tofino recently hosted its ‘High Ground Hike,’ an evacuation drill designed to familiarize the community with emergency protocols in the event of a tsunami. Since its inception in 2016, this initiative not only educates locals on safety measures but also encourages volunteer participation to enhance collective readiness. Collaborations with academic institutions further bolster their understanding of effective response strategies.
Despite the absence of a modern-era tsunami strike, Goda commended Tofino’s proactive measures. The community has installed emergency sirens and created comprehensive inundation maps, identifying areas susceptible to flooding.
One of the ambitious projects Tofino is considering is the construction of vertical evacuation towers. “The concept first emerged from community members and gaining funding is the next step,” Mayor Law stated. Such structures, prevalent in Japan, could provide vital refuge during a tsunami. Typically built as robust steel frames with platforms positioned 20 to 30 meters above ground, these towers would effectively protect residents from even the most vigorous tsunami waves, according to Goda.
“While such an event may be unlikely, we must remain vigilant and regard the potential consequences seriously,” he added, emphasizing the necessity of preparation despite Tofino’s size.
Support from Higher Levels of Government
The provincial government has pledged its support in addressing Tofino’s tsunami risk, providing $150,000 to facilitate early planning for the proposed evacuation tower. “We are collaborating with Tofino on this important initiative, and the initial funding signifies our commitment to their safety,” noted Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness.
As discussions move forward, estimates suggest that the tower’s construction could range from $4 million to $6 million, necessitating substantial financial backing from regional authorities. Meanwhile, Mayor Law reassured the community that they continually refine their safety and communication strategies to mitigate the risks associated with tsunamis.
“While the threat may seem distant, we are devoted to ensuring our residents are prepared,” he concluded. Tofino stands as a model of community resilience and preparedness in the face of natural disasters, exemplifying the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding coastal populations.
Source
globalnews.ca