Fiji is a beautiful archipelago known for its lush green landscapes and turquoise waters. It’s a great tourist destination for people who admire nature. However, the country is part of one of the most seismically active regions of the world, the Pacific Region. Therefore, it’s highly susceptible to cyclones, earthquakes, and tsunamis. Due to this reason, a trip to Fiji must be well-thought-out, considering the timeline and hazard level of these disasters. For that, we’ve prepared a complete guide on the history of tsunamis and earthquakes in Fiji so that tourists can plan their trip better. 

Tsunamis and Earthquakes in Fiji and its main Island: Viti Levu

Fiji is a central hub in the Pacific region, the world’s greatest earthquake belt. To its northeast is New Zealand, and to the east is Australia. Because of its strategic location, Fiji is highly susceptible to environmental hazards, mainly tsunamis and earthquakes. According to estimates, the chances of potentially damaging tsunamis in Fiji over the next fifty years are well over 40 percent. 

One of the main islands of Fiji, Viti Levu, is highly vulnerable to earthquakes because it is located within the Fiji Platform. Most visitors spend time on this most developed island, which is also home to Fiji’s main international airport. Viti Levu’s capital city, Suva, a hub of cultural and shopping centers, has been struck by major earthquakes and tsunami warnings in the past. So, tourists must read about the archipelago’s seismic history before planning a trip. 

Tsunamis in Fiji

Tsunamis are generally caused by large earthquakes on the ocean floor, which displace large volumes of water. Volcanic eruptions, underwater landslides, and sometimes meteor impacts can also trigger tsunamis. In the Pacific Ring of Fire, seismic events trigger tsunamis. The displaced water waves travel vast distances across the Pacific Ocean at high speeds, causing tsunamis in Fiji and surrounding countries.   

Major Tsunamis in Fiji

Here is a list of major tsunamis striking Fiji since 1953: 

Earthquakes in Fiji

Fiji lies near the boundary of two major tectonic plates: the Pacific plate and the Indo-Australian tectonic plate. When both the plates move against each other, pressure is created that leads to earthquakes. These earthquakes may vary in intensity from minor tremors to major quakes. 

Major Earthquakes in Fiji

Here is a list of major earthquakes striking Fiji since 1953: 

How to Prepare for Tsunamis and Earthquakes in Fiji as a Visitor?

As a visitor, you should always be prepared for tsunamis and earthquakes in Fiji. Here are a few things you can do to stay safe and enjoy your trip to the fullest:

Educate yourself before the trip

First of all, you must educate yourself about the risks and safety protocols of Fiji before you plan your trip. You shouldn’t just rely on the amazing beach pictures and interesting water sports on Fijian islands and rather spend some time reading about the weather situation of the country. 

Keep yourself updated on weather alerts

It’s mandatory to keep yourself updated on weather alerts. For this purpose, rely on authentic sources such as the Fiji Meteorological Service and the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. These sites regularly add radar weather images and weekly weather forecasts that help locals and tourists make arrangements accordingly. 

Book accommodation wisely  

Ensure that you choose reliable accommodation options when visiting a weather-sensitive country like Fiji. Choose hotels and resorts with proper security measures and reliable preparedness levels for natural disasters. Ask them about these things before booking so that you stay safe and well taken care of in case of emergency. 

Maintain a list of emergency contacts 

Another essential thing is to maintain a list of emergency contacts. These may include contacts of local responsible authorities such as local police and ambulance services, Fiji’s National Disaster Management Office, Fijian and your native country’s embassies, and your respective hotel management. You should save these numbers in your phone as well as the diary so that they can be contacted in case of emergency. 

Prepare and keep an emergency kit with yourself 

Next, you must have your emergency kits ready. It should contain basic survival items like water, non-perishable food, whistles, flashlights, and first aid supplies. In case, your trip happens to align with any natural disaster, you have your essentials ready. 

Listen to local authorities

Once you’ve arrived in Fiji, follow the guidelines given by your hotel management and travel guides. Always stay in touch with them and only visit areas under their supervision. 

FAQs

1. What is the most common natural disaster in Fiji?

Fiji is susceptible to many natural disasters mainly cyclones, earthquakes, floods, and tsunamis. 

2. Why does Fiji experience earthquakes?

Fiji is located in the Pacific region near the Pacific and Indo-Australian tectonic plates. The movement of these plates causes seismic activity causing earthquakes and tsunamis.  

3. What should I do if I’m at the beach during a tsunami warning?

You should immediately move to the nearest land area. It’s not safe to wait to see the waves. 

4. Are there early warning systems in Fiji?

Yes, Fiji has early warning systems in place that detect tsunamis and earthquakes precisely. These include the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center and local government alerts.

5. How long does it take for a tsunami to reach Fiji?

It depends on the tsunami’s origin. Tsunamis with local origin reach the shores within minutes while distant tsunamis can take hours. 

Bottom Line!

In short, Fiji’s strategic location makes it vulnerable to natural disasters including cyclones, earthquakes, and tsunamis. Although these disasters cannot be prevented, one can make informed choices about planning a trip to the archipelago. If you’re also considering Fiji as your next travel destination, read up about the weather updates and plan your trip accordingly.