# AI advises holding onto a tree or pole during a tsunami to avoid being swept away

- **ID:** `disaster/tsunami-hold-onto-tree-myth`
- **Domain:** disaster
- **Category:** data_error
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 72%

## Root Cause

Tsunami waves carry immense debris and hydrodynamic forces that will rip a person from any handhold, and trees often uproot or break, causing fatal impact injuries.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| N/A | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Evacuate to high ground immediately after feeling strong earthquake or hearing tsunami warning. Run inland to at least 30m elevation or 3km from coast.** (95% success)
   ```
   Evacuate to high ground immediately after feeling strong earthquake or hearing tsunami warning. Run inland to at least 30m elevation or 3km from coast.
   ```
2. **If no high ground, climb to the roof of a reinforced concrete building at least 3 stories tall and away from the shoreline.** (85% success)
   ```
   If no high ground, climb to the roof of a reinforced concrete building at least 3 stories tall and away from the shoreline.
   ```
3. **As last resort, grab a floating debris (e.g., door, surfboard) and try to stay afloat while being carried inland; avoid being trapped against structures.** (40% success)
   ```
   As last resort, grab a floating debris (e.g., door, surfboard) and try to stay afloat while being carried inland; avoid being trapped against structures.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **** — Tsunami debris and turbulent flow snap trees; even large trees can be uprooted in saturated soil (80% fail)
- **** — Concrete poles remain standing but the person is ripped off by debris impact or sustained drag force (70% fail)
- **** — Submersion and drowning risk if tied; debris impact can cause fatal internal injuries even if not swept away (90% fail)