# AI advises sheltering on a concrete pier or harbor wall during a tsunami (structural collapse and debris impact risk)

- **ID:** `disaster/tsunami-harbor-structure-myth`
- **Domain:** disaster
- **Category:** life_threatening
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 75%

## Root Cause

Concrete piers and harbor walls are engineered for static wave loads, not the dynamic, debris-laden surge of a tsunami; they can collapse or be swept away, and provide no elevation above the inundation zone.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| NOAA TsunamiReady v2.1 | active | — | — |
| USGS Tsunami Hazard Assessment 2024 | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Evacuate to a designated tsunami vertical evacuation structure (e.g., a reinforced concrete building at least 30 feet above sea level) or move inland to high ground. Use the 'Tsunami Evacuation Map' app to identify safe zones.** (88% success)
   ```
   Evacuate to a designated tsunami vertical evacuation structure (e.g., a reinforced concrete building at least 30 feet above sea level) or move inland to high ground. Use the 'Tsunami Evacuation Map' app to identify safe zones.
   ```
2. **If no structure is available, climb a sturdy, well-anchored tree at least 50 feet above the expected inundation height, but only as a last resort.** (30% success)
   ```
   If no structure is available, climb a sturdy, well-anchored tree at least 50 feet above the expected inundation height, but only as a last resort.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Believing that concrete structures are inherently stronger than water; they are not designed for horizontal debris impact and can fail suddenly. (65% fail)
- **** — Assuming height alone is sufficient; harbor walls are typically only a few meters above sea level and within the inundation zone. (50% fail)
- **** — Misinterpreting 'tsunami-safe' signs on some modern piers as applicable to all piers; most are not rated for tsunami forces. (40% fail)