And to think, the reactor plants were designed for a Tsunami of 17 feet which was thought far and above any conceivable flood! That was based on the best scientific thought considering historical evidence. But, in their area, they experienced flooding to 45 feet.
The roof of this building in Minamisanriku, Japan was a designated safe haven, but it proved insufficiently high. Around ten people managed to cling to life there, but twenty others were swept away. -- By Asian Disaster Reduction Center
It's my understanding, that the public was also instructed that they'd find protection hiding behind Tsunami walls. We now know that these walls were no where near the height which were needed, and those who sought protection there, were the first to perish.
It's back to the drawing boards.
