Southwest Travel Club Breaking News On Travel

By now most of the world is aware of the devastation which has and is still occurring in the Pacific. A powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake hit Chili in the early morning hours of February 27, 2010. Hundreds have already perished, but the affects are still expected to be felt for hours to come. In Hawaii, sirens have been going off all day in preparation for an ensuing tsunami on it's way to the coast of not only Hawaii, but perhaps as far as Japan.

The Internet is flooded with people from around the world updating those they love and keeping other travelers informed of what is going on in this region of the world. As travelers, we never expect events such as these to occur while we are abroad, but this raises the question, what if they do? People are concerned about those visiting these affected and possibly affected areas and are searching for information on the well being of those people. Twitter is a hotspot of travel information, keeping those searching for information as well updated as possible. As family and friends of those who may be in these areas that have been impacted and still may be impacted, all we can do is sit and wait, but what if you are the traveler? Southwest Travel Club would like to extend our condolences to all who have lost loved ones in events such as this and others such as the tragedy in Haiti.

Southwest Travel Club would like to offer some tips on what you should do in the event that a tsunami occurs or is going to occur while you are on a vacation. It can happen to anyone. Unlike natural disasters such as hurricanes, which happen during certain seasons, tsunamis, which are usually created by an earthquake are less predictable as earthquakes can and do happen any time throughout the year. Areas such as the Pacific Basin are the often affected by tsunamis, but they can occur in other parts of the world as well. If you are one of the unlucky ones who are in the path of an ensuing tsunami, there are some things you can do to prepare.

Know what causes a tsunami and be aware of current events throughout the area.
A tsunami is a large wave which occurs after an event such as an earthquake, the earthquake does not have to be near you. In the case of the earthquake on February 27th, it occurred in Chili, but the tsunami warnings are posted throughout the Pacific Basin. The wave may start small, but as it travels across the ocean, it reaches shallower waters and that is where the strength begins to build. If the tide on the coast drops back, travelers must get away from low lying areas. Though the first wave is usually the largest, many other smaller waves can still occur, and you must stay away from the beach until you are told that it is safe.

Destinations that are familiar with tsunamis are almost always prepared and have warnings in place to make you aware. Be familiar with these warning systems, talk to the local people and get information on evacuation zones and safe zones that you should travel to if a warning signal goes off. If you are on a boat, it is advised that you not go inland as the wave impact the beach and coast. Stay away from the coastline and ports until officials say it is ok.

Most importantly, don't panic, stay calm, gather your supplies and get away from low lying areas. The local population is more than likely familiar with the system and what to do, so stay with a group. Natural disasters occur throughout the world and you can be prepared. Southwest Travel Club reminds you to stay smart, stay informed and travel with caution throughout the world.