Simulation Reveals Vulnerable Coastal Areas
Madeira’s defense forces have conducted a large-scale simulation to prepare for a potential 30-meter tsunami. Commander Rui Tendeiro of the Operational Command of Madeira led the exercise, which tested the region’s ability to respond to a disaster of this magnitude. The simulation showed that low-lying areas like Caniçal, Santa Cruz, Machico, and Funchal would face severe damage in such an event.
In a real catastrophe, support from the mainland would be essential.
Defense Forces Prepared, But Limits Exist
The navy, air force, and army stationed in Madeira are preparing for the simulated scenario. He acknowledged that a larger disaster would require reinforcements from mainland Portugal: “in a real catastrophe, support from the mainland would be essential.”
A Tsunami Could Sweep Through Lido Area in Funchal
The simulation showed that a tsunami would heavily impact the Zona Franca and lower parts of Caniçal. In Machico, the wave would reach the football stadium and fire station. Santa Cruz’s airport and the Porto Novo area would also be hit. In Funchal, the wave could sweep through the waterfront, fire stations, and even the Lido district.
Most Devastating Tsunamis in Recent Times
Indian Ocean Tsunami (2004): Waves up to 30 m high, caused by a 9.1–9.3 magnitude earthquake near Sumatra. More than 230,000 people died.
Tohoku Tsunami (2011): Waves reached 40 m, caused by a 9.0 magnitude earthquake off Japan’s coast. More than 18,000 people died.
Papua New Guinea Tsunami (1998): Waves up to 15 m; 7.0 magnitude quake and landslides. More than 2,200 people died.
Source: RTP Madeira
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