Tsunami
Tsunami is a Japanese word meaning "wave" (nami) in a port ("tsu"). A tsunami is a series of large waves travelling over a long distance. It is generally triggered by submarine or near-seafloor earthquakes. In most cases, a tsunami is preceded by a sudden pullback of the sea.
Tsunamis can also be caused by landslides or ground movements, resulting from natural phenomena or human activities (e.g. construction work).
The probability of a tsunami hitting the Belgian coast is extremely low.
Risks and causes
What can you do?
BEFORE
- Look for the first-aid posts when you arrive at the beach. Only swim in supervised areas.
- Recognise the signs. A red flag means that swimming is prohibited.
DURING
- Leave the beach immediately. Go to a more elevated area.
- Follow the instructions of the lifeguards on site.
AFTER
Follow the instructions of the emergency services. Avoid the danger zone until the risk has been completely eliminated.
Impact and probability
The figures relating to probability and impact describe a tsunami of extreme magnitude. The BNRA theoretically describes such a scenario as follows:
- A wave over 2.5 metres high can break through dikes and protective structures.
- It is the summer holidays. There are lots of people on the beach and along the coast.
- The wave reaches the coast in a very short time (just a few minutes). The areas most affected are flat or below sea level, such as polders.
How should you interpret these results?
Within the BNRA, experts assessed three scenarios for each risk: considerable, major or extreme. On each page, you will find the results of the scenario with the highest score based on the combination of likelihood and impact. This does not mean that this scenario will occur or is the most likely. Read more here about how to correctly interpret the results.
Probability
Improbable
Human impact
Moderate
Societal impact
Moderate
Environmental impact
Very weak
Financial impact
Moderate
What do the authorities do?
The Belgian Coast Guard is a partnership between the Governor of West Flanders and 17 Flemish and federal public bodies with jurisdiction over the sea.
The relevant coastguard partners have set up fixed warning procedures in the event of danger in the North Sea. These procedures are set out in a general emergency and intervention plan for the North Sea. Learn more about the coastguard and the emergency plan.
Preventive measures are also taken to reinforce the dikes, as part of the "Kustvisie" project of the Flemish authorities.