Tsunamis

A major earthquake in the Atlantic or western Mediterranean could generate a tsunami affecting Gibraltar's coastline. While rare, the consequences can be severe and rapid.

Who is Most at Risk?

People in coastal areas, the seafront, harbour and low-lying zones near the water are most at risk. Visitors at beach areas or near the port, and those on or near small vessels in harbour, face the greatest immediate danger from tsunami waves.

Before

  • Know the natural warning signs of a tsunami: a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand, a loud roar from the ocean, or the sea suddenly receding — exposing the seabed further than usual.
  • Identify high-ground routes from your home, workplace and commonly visited coastal areas. Know how to reach them quickly on foot.
  • Keep a battery-powered or wind-up radio to receive warnings without power or internet.
  • Prepare a grab bag you can take if you need to evacuate quickly: water, food, medications, documents, torch, radio.
  • Familiarise yourself and your family with Gibraltar’s tsunami warning systems — alerts will be issued by HM Government of Gibraltar and broadcast on GBC Radio.

During

  • If you feel a strong earthquake near the coast, do not wait for an official warning — move to high ground immediately.
  • If you see the sea suddenly recede far beyond the normal tide line, move to high ground immediately.
  • Move inland and uphill as quickly as possible — do not stop to collect belongings.
  • Stay away from the coast, harbour, seafront and rivers — tsunamis can travel far inland along waterways.
  • Do not return to the coast until official authorities confirm it is safe — tsunamis often come in multiple waves, and later waves can be larger than the first.
  • If you are caught in water, hold onto something that floats. Look for a structure you can climb to get above the water.
  • If you are on a vessel in deep open water, do not return to port — a tsunami is much less dangerous far offshore. Contact the harbour master for guidance.

After

  • Do not return to coastal or low-lying areas until HM Government of Gibraltar gives the all-clear.
  • Be aware that multiple waves may follow — the first wave is often not the largest.
  • Avoid floodwater — it may be contaminated and may contain debris and hazards.
  • Check yourself and others for injuries. Call 999 if medical assistance is needed.
  • Listen to GBC Radio for official updates on when it is safe to return and what areas to avoid.
  • Report damage to roads, utilities or buildings to the relevant authority.