What To Know
- The Deep-Ocean Assessment and Reporting of Tsunami (DART) system stands out as a global effort by several governments to monitor tsunamis in real-time.
- a recent UNESCO report highlights that France‘s Mediterranean coast faces a guaranteed risk of a tsunami within the next thirty years.
- On January 19, 2024, many French residents received a simulated tsunami alert on their phones as part of an exercise.
Nearly two decades ago, catastrophic waves devastated the shores of the Indian Ocean, including Thailand, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka. This traumatic disaster spurred the development of advanced forecasting systems to provide early warnings for approaching tsunamis.
remembering december 26, 2024
December 26, 2004, marks a notorious day in the annals of natural disasters. Triggered by an undersea earthquake near Indonesia, a tsunami unleashed its fury on the Indian Ocean’s coasts. Over thirty-foot-high waves battered more than ten countries.
The tragedy claimed approximately 250,000 lives, with Sumatra in Indonesia suffering over 120,000 casualties. The aftermath lingered long after the waters receded, sparking epidemics and severe shortages of water and provisions. It resulted in an overwhelming displacement of two million people.
strategic placement of buoy systems
The absence of an alert system undoubtedly contributed to the high death toll. In recent years, multiple initiatives have emerged to raise awareness and alert populations about approaching tsunamis. For instance, Japan has developed a rapid response mechanism where tsunami warnings are issued within three minutes following offshore earthquakes.
The Deep-Ocean Assessment and Reporting of Tsunami (DART) system stands out as a global effort by several governments to monitor tsunamis in real-time. These strategically placed buoys use pressure sensors on the ocean floor to detect anomalies.
- Currently, there are 74 DART buoys positioned globally.
- Their effectiveness is crucial for timely alerts and enhanced safety measures.
a need for more comprehensive coverage
The existing network raises questions about its sufficiency in protecting global coastlines from future threats. As Costas Synolakis from the University of Southern California’s Tsunami Research Center pointed out, approximately half of these buoys cover the Pacific and Indian Oceans at any given time. He advocates for at least 150 operational DART buoys worldwide to ensure effective warning systems with precise alerts.
This necessity could be particularly pertinent for Europe: a recent UNESCO report highlights that France’s Mediterranean coast faces a guaranteed risk of a tsunami within the next thirty years. On January 19, 2024, many French residents received a simulated tsunami alert on their phones as part of an exercise.
This article provides insights into ongoing efforts and challenges in enhancing tsunami preparedness post-December 26th tragedy.
