World Better Prepared for Tsunamis, Say Ocean Experts
RSS/AFP
Published 2024 Oct 25 Friday
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Jakarta: As the 20th anniversary of the devastating 2004 Asian tsunami approaches, ocean science experts report that the world is now more prepared than ever to handle such disasters, thanks to early warning systems. Despite the inability to predict when a tsunami might strike, these systems can now issue alerts within minutes after a tsunami wave forms.
Bernardo Aliaga, head of tsunami resilience at UNESCO, emphasized the improvements made since 2004, stating, "The global early warning system is saving lives." However, he noted that more needs to be done, especially in vulnerable areas.
UNESCO aims to have 100% of at-risk coastal communities equipped with tsunami preparedness by 2030 through its "Tsunami Ready" program, which promotes measures like evacuation plans and regular drills. Countries impacted by the 2004 tsunami, as well as Japan, which experienced a deadly tsunami in 2011, remain particularly vulnerable.
While the systems in place cannot prevent every death, experts stressed that they can significantly reduce the impact of such disasters.
