Global Tsunami Early Warning and Mitigation Programme

Coordinated by IOC, the Global Tsunami Warning System plays a critical role in protecting lives. The IOC Tsunami Programme supports Member States in assessing tsunami risk, implementing Tsunami Early Warning Systems (EWS) and in educating communities at risk about preparedness measures.

It is essential that nations have access to the necessary information for early detection of, and coastal adaptation planning against ocean-related hazards. Through its four Intergovernmental Coordination Groups (ICGs) – for the Pacific Ocean, Caribbean Sea and adjacent regions, Indian Ocean, and North-eastern Atlantic, Mediterranean and connected seas regions – the IOC coordinates the operational tsunami early warning service framework including regional meetings, capacity building activities and operational tsunami exercises for early warning against tsunamis.

The UNESCO-IOC Tsunami Ready pilot programme provides a framework for Member States to improve coastal community preparedness for tsunami emergencies, to minimize the loss of life and property and to ensure institutional and community-based systematic approaches in building community preparedness.

IOC also established four information centers to support the work of regional coordination groups and the tsunami warning and mitigation systems:

• International Tsunami Information Center (ITIC)
• North-eastern Atlantic, Mediterranean and Connected Seas Tsunami Information Center (NEAMTIC)
• Caribbean and Adjacent Regions Tsunami Information Center (CTIC)
• Indian Ocean Tsunami Information Center (IOTIC)

These centers provide information on warning systems, risks and good practices for civil protection agencies, disaster management organizations, decision makers, schools, industries in the coastal zone and the general public.

Global Tsunami Warning System website: http://www.ioc-tsunami.org/