# AI tells users to 'evacuate to high ground' during a tsunami, but vertical evacuation in reinforced concrete buildings is a validated alternative in flat coastal areas

- **ID:** `emergency/tsunami-vertical-evacuation`
- **Domain:** emergency
- **Category:** life_safety
- **Error Code:** `TSUNAMI-VERT-ERR-001`
- **Verification:** ai_generated
- **Fix Rate:** 80%

## Root Cause

In regions without nearby high ground (e.g., Pacific Northwest coast), vertical evacuation to designated tsunami-safe buildings (4+ stories, reinforced concrete) is the only viable option; 'high ground' advice may be impossible.

## Version Compatibility

| Version | Status | Introduced | Deprecated |
|---------|--------|------------|------------|
| NOAA TsunamiReady 2023 | active | — | — |
| FEMA P-646 Guidelines 2022 | active | — | — |

## Workarounds

1. **Identify nearest designated vertical evacuation structure (typically 4+ story reinforced concrete building) before tsunami warning. Proceed to upper floors (3rd floor or above) immediately when warning is issued.** (85% success)
   ```
   Identify nearest designated vertical evacuation structure (typically 4+ story reinforced concrete building) before tsunami warning. Proceed to upper floors (3rd floor or above) immediately when warning is issued.
   ```
2. **If no designated structure, go to any multi-story reinforced concrete building (e.g., hospital, school, hotel) and ascend to 4th floor or higher. Avoid wood-frame buildings.** (70% success)
   ```
   If no designated structure, go to any multi-story reinforced concrete building (e.g., hospital, school, hotel) and ascend to 4th floor or higher. Avoid wood-frame buildings.
   ```

## Dead Ends

- **Run to the nearest hill or elevated area regardless of distance** — In flat coastal plains (e.g., Ocean Shores, WA), nearest hill may be miles away; victim cannot outrun tsunami wave traveling at 500+ mph. (90% fail)
- **Climb a tree or light pole for elevation** — Tsunami debris and water force will sweep person away; tree may uproot; height insufficient for wave surge. (95% fail)
- **Drive away from coast in a car** — Roads may be congested or damaged; tsunami can arrive within minutes; pedestrian evacuation is faster in many cases. (70% fail)