World Tsunami Awareness Day

World Tsunami Awareness Day History

World Tsunami Awareness Day is dedicated to raising awareness about the dangers posed by tsunamis and promoting strategies to protect lives and mitigate tsunami impacts. The day is recognized globally, and it aims to emphasize the importance of early warning systems, preparedness, risk reduction, and resilient communities. Through this observance, communities worldwide can better understand tsunami risks and work together toward a safer, well-prepared future.

The UN General Assembly established World Tsunami Awareness Day on December 22, 2015, in honour of Japan's Inamura-no-hi, commemorating a 19th-century farmer who saved countless lives during a tsunami. Given Australia's location within the Asia-Pacific region, it is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of tsunamis. Along with international efforts, the Australian government collaborates to improve detection and warning capabilities, increase community awareness, and maintain planning and management efforts to minimize potential damage.

In Australia, World Tsunami Awareness Day is observed through various activities, such as educational workshops, policy discussions, and preparedness exercises, designed to engage both policymakers and the general public. Authorities encourage communities to learn more about the risks associated with tsunamis and become better prepared to respond to potential threats. Events focusing on risk assessment, emergency planning, and evacuation procedures play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of Australian communities. As a global effort, World Tsunami Awareness Day takes place every year on November 5, encouraging nations to participate and work together to minimize the impacts of tsunamis.

World Tsunami Awareness Day facts

• By 2030, 50% of the world will live in or near coastal areas exposed to flooding, storms, or tsunamis according to the U.N.
• The most powerful ocean-wide tsunami happened in 1960 in Chile, reaching magnitude of 9.5.
• Tsunamis can travel thousands of kilometers with speeds up to 800 kilometers per hour.
• Apart from artificial defenses, natural barriers like mangroves, sand dunes, and coral reefs play a critical role in reducing the impact of tsunamis. In Australia, efforts are directed towards the conservation and restoration of these ecosystems for both biodiversity and disaster risk reduction purposes.
• In the event of a potential tsunami, the JATWC issues national advisories categorized into three levels: No Threat, Marine and Immediate Foreshore Threat, and Land Inundation Threat. These advisories inform the public about the potential danger and direct them towards appropriate actions.

In the News and Trending in Australia for World Tsunami Awareness Day

Top things to do in Australia for World Tsunami Awareness Day

• Learn more about tsunamis and how to recognize signs of an approaching one. Learn how to protect yourself at Tsunami Ready.
• Research the types of natural disasters that can occur in your area. Know and understand what to do and have a plan in case of emergency.
• Organize or join beach cleanup activities in coastal regions. This not only helps keep the environment clean but also serves as a reminder of the potential impact tsunamis can have on coastal communities.
• Get involved with disaster management organizations or volunteer groups that are actively involved in preparing communities for tsunamis and other natural disasters. Offer your time and skills to assist in their activities, which can include public education, emergency planning, or fundraising.