Human Wave: a Tsunami Awareness Campaign
Imagine Being Part of Something Amazing…
Picture this: a sea of blue-clad community members flowing through downtown Hilo, creating a moving wave of tsunami awareness! We’re introducing something completely new – the Human Wave: a Tsunami Awareness Campaign. This isn’t your typical awareness campaign – it’s an interactive, dynamic movement where YOU become part of the message.
Why This Matters
It’s been almost 40 years since Hawaii’s last deadly tsunami, but our mission remains crucial: no one should ever again die in Hawaii due to a tsunami. As Hilo’s most tsunami-impacted area in the islands, we must ensure our growing community stays informed and prepared.
Think flash mob meets community outreach! As a large group 50+ members, we will be going door-to-door as one blue human wave through downtown Hilo. We will be creating an unforgettable visual symbol of tsunami awareness while connecting with our community. Whether you’re outgoing or shy, there’s a perfect spot for you in our wave – from sharing information to simply being part of this moving mob.
- Free on street parking available along Kalakaua St and next to Hilo Armory between Shipman St and Wailuku
- Please do not park behind the Old Hawaii National Bank
- Regular rest stops with seating available
- Mostly flat terrain with some historic downtown sidewalks
- Accessible restrooms at the Pacific Tsunami Museum, East Hawaii Cultural Center, KTA Downtown Store and the Downtown Hilo Bus Terminal
- Walk at your own pace with your group, please let group leaders know if you need assistance
- You have the option to join for partial segments
- Different groups will have different routes along downtown Hilo. Maps will be given out day of. Example Below .4 mile
- You’ll be part of a small, friendly group of 8-10 people
- Each group has an experienced leader wearing a name tag designation
- Stay with your group at a comfortable walking pace
- Groups include a mix of volunteers – you can choose your role:
- Greeters: Simply walk and smile
- Information Sharers: Hand out light materials
- Community Connectors: Chat with businesses
- All roles are optional – participate at your comfort level
- Wear Blue or a Pacific Tsunami Museum T-Shirt (20% off discount on PTM Shirts at the gift shop day of)
- Water Bottle (or purchase a reusable Waiakea Water Bottle)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hat or umbrella for sun protection
- Light jacket (most indoor stops are air-conditioned)
- Your enthusiasm! (everything else is provided)
Yes! Routes are accessible and rest stops frequent. Join us for any portion you’re comfortable with.
No, you can choose a non-speaking role
Hilo, Hawaii has been hit by several deadly tsunamis, including:
A tsunami triggered by an earthquake in the Aleutian Islands killed at least 160 people. The tsunami destroyed the Hilo waterfront and caused surges as tall as three-story buildings.
A tsunami triggered by an earthquake off the west coast of Chile killed at least 61 people. The tsunami destroyed or severely damaged about 540 homes and businesses.
OUR PARTNERS
Museum Square: East Hawaii Cultural Center, Science and Technology Museum, & Mokupapapa Discovery Center
Day Schedule
Check in Coffee Hour • 10AM – 11AM
Coffee Hour is a pre-event gathering at the Pacific Tsunami Museum. We encourage all volunteers to join for the full hour to enjoy refreshments, welcomes, and to be assigned a “wave.”
Human Tsunami Unleashed • 11AM – 1PM
Volunteers are unleashed in ‘waves’ with a team leader and assigned different blocks to “hit.” Volunteers will be given handouts to hand out.
End at EHCC Holiday Sale • 1PM – 2PM
We gather back together as a group at East Hawaii Cultural Center who is having their annual local Holiday Art Sale. Find items from local artists and makers.