Where and when will the next tsunami strike?
Even with today’s sophisticated technology, much remains to be learned about tsunamis. Unfortunately, their location and magnitude are very difficult to predict. When a tsunami is generated, its height and arrival time vary according to local coastal configurations. The resulting types of damage can further complicate safety planning. Millions of lives are potentially at risk from the threat of tsunamis. The UNESCO IOC provides a general plan of action and basic framework for dealing with the unique hazards resulting from tsunamis. We strongly recommend that local authorities take into account each community’s unique circumstances and periodically review current action plans . In this way, planners will be able to adapt each community’s unique topography, special circumstances, changes in the social environment and scientific research to the proposed overall strategy contained in this guide.