World Tsunami Awareness Day is an annual event observed on November 5th to spotlight the perilous impact of tsunamis and emphasize the crucial need for preparedness and early warning systems. On this day, various countries organize events, and individuals are urged to raise awareness through social media.

Tsunami awareness holds significant importance, given that over the past century, there have been 58 tsunamis resulting in a combined death toll exceeding 260,000 people. Between 1998 and 2018, the economic losses due to tsunamis amounted to $200 billion. With the potential for increased tsunami risks in the future due to population growth in coastal areas and rising sea levels, the official theme of World Tsunami Awareness Day 2022 is "#GetToHighGround," encouraging individuals to practice tsunami evacuation plans. Walks organized in Portugal and Mauritius contribute to spreading this crucial message.

Background and History

• Inception: World Tsunami Awareness Day was established following the devastating Indian Ocean Tsunami of December 26, 2004, which claimed over 230,000 lives across 14 countries. The day serves to commemorate the tragedy and promote global awareness about tsunami risks.

• UN Resolution: The United Nations General Assembly designated November 5th as World Tsunami Awareness Day to encourage international cooperation in tsunami early warning systems, disaster risk reduction, and community resilience building.

Objectives of World Tsunami Awareness Day

• Raise Awareness: Increase public awareness about tsunami risks, including their causes, impacts, and the importance of early warning systems.

• Promote Preparedness: Advocate for disaster preparedness measures, emergency response plans, and community resilience strategies in tsunami-prone regions.

• Education: Educate communities, governments, and stakeholders about effective ways to mitigate tsunami risks through public education, training, and awareness-raising activities.

Activities and Ways to Participate

• Public Awareness Campaigns: Organize events, seminars, workshops, and public forums to educate communities about tsunami risks, preparedness strategies, and evacuation procedures.

• School and Community Engagement: Conduct drills, simulations, and educational programs in schools and local communities to teach tsunami preparedness and safety measures.

• Media Outreach: Use traditional and digital media platforms to share information, stories, and resources about tsunami awareness and preparedness.

• Partnerships and Collaboration: Foster collaboration among governments, NGOs, scientific institutions, and the private sector to strengthen tsunami early warning systems, research, and capacity-building initiatives.

Global Impact and Recognition

• Disaster Risk Reduction: Highlight the importance of integrating tsunami risk reduction measures into national and regional disaster management policies and frameworks.

• Community Resilience: Empower communities to build resilience against tsunamis through infrastructure development, land-use planning, coastal management, and environmental conservation practices.

• International Cooperation: Promote international cooperation and knowledge-sharing in tsunami monitoring, forecasting, and response efforts to enhance global preparedness and resilience.

How to Participate

• Learn and Share: Educate yourself and others about tsunami risks, warning signs, and safety procedures. Share information on social media using hashtags like #TsunamiAwarenessDay and #TsunamiPreparedness.

• Support Initiatives: Participate in or support organizations and initiatives that promote tsunami awareness, disaster preparedness, and resilience-building efforts in vulnerable communities.

• Advocate for Policy: Advocate for government policies and investments in tsunami early warning systems, infrastructure resilience, and community-based disaster preparedness programs.

World Tsunami Awareness Day serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing threat posed by tsunamis and the importance of preparedness, early warning systems, and community resilience in saving lives and reducing the impact of disasters. By raising awareness and taking proactive measures, individuals and communities contribute to creating safer and more resilient societies in tsunami-prone areas worldwide.