Active tsunami warnings
All clear - no active tsunami warning for South Africa
We monitor GDACS and the US National Weather Service continuously and will show any new alert here the moment it is issued. Get instant tsunami alerts with the QuakeMate app.
South Africa's coastline lies near the active Africa-Eurasia plate boundary, where earthquakes and landslides can generate tsunamis - as seen historically in the Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic. The strongest recent earthquake near South Africa was M 2.7 near SOUTH AFRICA.
Use this page to check whether there is a tsunami warning in South Africa today, see the current tsunami risk and recent offshore earthquakes, and understand what to do if a warning is issued. For instant tsunami and earthquake alerts in South Africa the moment they happen, the free QuakeMate tsunami & earthquake alert app sends real-time push notifications.
Tsunami alert levels
Dangerous coastal flooding and powerful currents likely. Move to high ground or inland now.
A tsunami is possible. Stay alert and be ready to act.
Strong currents or waves dangerous near the water. Stay away from the coast.
Tsunamis in South Africa: FAQ
Is there a tsunami warning in South Africa right now?
There is no active tsunami warning being tracked for South Africa right now. This page updates automatically from GDACS and the US NWS.
Can earthquakes near South Africa cause a tsunami?
South Africa's coastline lies near the active Africa-Eurasia plate boundary, where earthquakes and landslides can generate tsunamis - as seen historically in the Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic. Large, shallow offshore earthquakes (roughly M7+) are the main tsunami trigger.
Has there been a tsunami in South Africa?
South Africa's coastline lies near the active Africa-Eurasia plate boundary, where earthquakes and landslides can generate tsunamis - as seen historically in the Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic. Historically, tsunamis have affected this region after major offshore earthquakes. This page tracks the live alert status and recent offshore quakes so you can see current tsunami risk for South Africa.
What should I do during a tsunami warning in South Africa?
If a tsunami warning is issued for South Africa, move immediately to high ground or far inland, away from the coast, rivers and harbours, and follow official local guidance - do not wait to see the wave. The QuakeMate app can alert you the moment a warning is issued near you.
Where do tsunami warnings for South Africa come from?
QuakeMate aggregates the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center, the US National Tsunami Warning Center, and the global GDACS system. Local agencies issue the official guidance.
Is there a tsunami alert app for South Africa?
Yes. QuakeMate is a free iOS app that sends real-time tsunami warnings and major-earthquake alerts for South Africa, with a live map of offshore activity. Download it at quakemate.app/download.
Other hazards in South Africa
Tsunami & earthquake alerts for South Africa
QuakeMate sends real-time alerts for major earthquakes and tsunami warnings near you - free on iOS.