The Mediterranean area is not considered prone to tsunamis; however, historical documentation and studies suggest that the risk exists. The coastal areas of places like Nice will have only minutes to react to any underwater earthquakes or landslides, making prepared evacuation plans the best way to save lives.

The Mediterranean is second only to the Pacific Ocean in the number of tsunamis experienced. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, the likelihood of experiencing at least one meter-high tsunami within the next thirty years in the area stands at one hundred percent. The French Mediterranean coast alone has seen about twenty tsunamis since the 16th century, with many of them producing waves taller than two meters.

Tsunamis are caused by underwater earthquakes, landslides, or volcanic activity. Unlike storms, tsunamis have a limited time to be detected and provide adequate warning. A tsunami originating from the vicinity of the French coast could hit land within ten minutes. One coming from the waters around North Africa would be able to hit the French Riviera in about 90 minutes.

History shows that such danger has already been present in the past. Thus, in 1979, an underwater landslide occurred near Nice and a resulting tsunami claimed the lives of eight people while damaging coastal facilities in Nice, Cannes, and Antibes. An earthquake that happened in the Ligurian Sea in 1887 made water recede before waves of almost two meters hit some parts of the French Riviera.

The French government implemented an effective warning system for possible tsunamis in 2012. This system is efficient in identifying earthquakes that may cause tsunamis; nevertheless, its efficiency decreases considerably if tsunamis appear near the shorelines, as the waves may come to the land before the warnings.

In order to enhance the evacuation process, evacuation paths and more than 100 shelters have been selected in Nice and other coastal territories. Evacuation routes were planned based on topography and traffic conditions. In addition, public information and evacuation exercises play an important role in preparedness.

According to the findings, preparation and public awareness are crucial for evacuation in coastal zones where evacuation time might be very short.