Tidal Wave

Heard this radio report from an expert of tsunamis from Turkey. Though this disaster was unprecendented, the people actually had ample opportunities to escape. According to him, animals often provide a very good sign.

Take Penang for example. On a normal day, the sea will provide a yield of around 200 fishes for the fishing villages. 3 days before the tragedy, the fishermen were suddenly overwhelmed by a catch of 20 times that amount. The villagers celebrated, but sadly it would not last long.

The reason for the unusually huge yield was that fishes are extremely sensitive to ocean temperature. As the tsunami (or underwater earthquake) is building up, there will be an increase in temperature at the bottom of the ocean. Hence the fishes will start swimming up. (or maybe trying to swim away)

Other telltale signs include swarms of ants, snakes and others. It was reported that after the tsunami, there were only corpses of tourists but no carcasses of animals.

Next time if your pet cat/dog/fish/turtle/rabbit/bird starts to act in a strange manner, be wary of an earthquake (underground or otherwise)