Tsunami Warning: How safe is South East Asia

 

With an increasing number of Australian's venturing into South East Asia for cheap thrills and mean deals travel safety has never been more important (this is evident after looking at Bali and India in previous weeks). But even if you are prepared for every variable how can you control nature? Following last week’s tsunami threat in the Philippines memories of the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami or the tidal wave which swamped Japan last March have been re-visited.

 

 

http://blogs.abc.net.au/nsw/2011/11/after-the-wave-the-2004-boxing-day-tsunami.html

 

 

 

 

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake caused 132,107 locals and tourists to evacuate parts of the Philippines including the tourist islands of Mindanao and Leyte. Witnesses have described the terror and panic that struck the region once the earthquake struck with power wiped out and people are unsure on where to evacuate. (For more details visit http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/world/return-home-after-philippine-tsunami/story-fnd134gw-1226463167843)

 

If this was to happen to you how would you react? Survivors of the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami described how instinct had kicked in and they were able to help others to higher ground, however nothing can prepare you for the terror and aftermath. It seems more than once a year South East Asia is struck by a significant natural disaster which places thousands of tourist’s lives at risk. Thanks to the tsunami warning devices located through the Indian and Pacific oceans people are able to receive early notification however with less than an hour between earthquake and tidal surges in the Philippine’s last week time is critical.

Here are some tips to help you be prepared for a tidal surge

1.     Know your surrounds - plan for an evacuation process by being aware of high ground and how you can access routes

 

2.     Be aware of tsunami warnings and if announced follow instructions

 

3.     Talk to your insurance company

4.     Discuss tsunamis with your family

 

Once again the question is posed is the cheap holiday which South East Asia offers really worth the risks associated?

 

If you say yes visit http://www.journeyswithintravelblog.com/  to find your next South East Asia holiday destination.