As the world marked World Tsunami Awareness Day on Wednesday, UN Secretary General António Guterres emphasised the critical importance of early warning systems, particularly as recent disasters like the devasting floods in Spain demonstrate the increasing impact of extreme weather.
“This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Indian Ocean Tsunami – one of the deadliest disasters in recent history. More than 230,000 people lost their lives,” Mr. Guterres said in his message for the day.
The Secretary General highlighted that approximately 700 million people worldwide remain at risk from tsunamis, emphasising that the best protection comes through the UN Early Warnings for All initiative which aims to ensure universal access to life-saving alert systems.
Although tsunamis are rare, the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) reports that they are among Earth’s deadliest natural hazards.
These hugely powerful wave systems – typically triggered by underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides – have caused more than 260,000 deaths over the past century, with economic losses surpassing $280 billion.
According to the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UN scientific affairs agency UNESCO, tsunami waves can strike coastlines within minutes of a triggering event, travelling across oceans at speeds of up to 800 kilometers per hour.
The Indian Ocean Tsunami of 2004 catalysed global cooperation in disaster preparedness, leading to the creation of a warning system now protecting 27 countries. However, experts emphasise that warning systems are only effective when communities know how to respond.
“Education is vital to saving lives and as this year’s theme reminds us, the participation of children and young people is critical,” Mr. Guterres stressed, urging governments and partners in coastal communities to ensure populations understand evacuation procedures.
The Secretary-General concluded with a call for immediate action: “Together, let’s ensure people’s futures are not swept away by tsunamis. Let’s build resilience – now.”