Y'all are getting a bit carried away. Even if that part of the island slid into the ocean, the wave would take 8 hours to reach the east coast and not go inland more than about 12 miles. Take a breath.
Nevermind, the wording was odd. I think you meant people are not being cautious due to desperation.
It is written in such story telling fan fiction way, it is hard to believe it has any merit.