The map referenced in the Nov. 8 editorial provides a false impression of the ease in which residents can reach high ground. Here are a few of many concerns.

• Many remember the Japan’s subduction zone quake in March 2011. The shaking lasted for six minutes. The tsunami is triggered by the initial shock wave, yet we will not be able to start walking until the shaking stops.

• The Peninsula’s elevation is expected to drop by six feet as the earth’s crust rearranges itself. What does that mean for water intrusion into previously dry areas. Walking routes will not be as they appear on the map.

• The map is a model that assumes a walk speed of 2.5 mph. We are largely a retirement community for whom that is a reasonable pace without confronting broken pavement, fallen trees, etc. The walking times on the map are unrealistic.

The map misleads about the assembly areas, but a sidebar note that, “These are typically open spaces … And will likely not have immediate services or shelter.” Before going on, are any of these areas so designated by signage? If out in the open with neither water nor shelter, what’s the point?

At some future date there will be “The Big One.” Instead of directing our populaces to unmarked places with nothing to ensure survival, would we not be better off by having a known place where we could meet that has the necessities?

Easier said than done, but the goal is not just to survive the tsunami, but to survive our survival. That’s the real challenge.

JON CHAMBREAU

Ilwaco