On the early morning of May 23, 1960, a massive earthquake, the largest ever recorded with a magnitude of 9.5, struck southern Chile. This earthquake unleashed a tsunami that swiftly crossed the Pacific Ocean, reaching the Japanese coast about 22.5 hours later. The tsunami, which surged up to 8 meters high, resulted in 139 deaths and caused the destruction or displacement of 2,830 buildings across Japan. Due to the geographical position of Chile opposite Japan, the tsunami’s impact was more pronounced upon reaching the Japanese shores. These distant tsunamis are particularly challenging to forecast since they occur without the preliminary tremors typically associated with earthquakes. Consequently, regions prone to seismic activity, particularly around the Pacific, including Hawaii, have established early warning systems.

Day_168 : Past Interview Records – PTWC (Pacific Tsunami Warning Center) in Hawaii (1)

In 2004, the Indian Ocean was struck by another significant earthquake, which triggered a devastating tsunami. At that time, the absence of a tsunami warning system in the Indian Ocean contributed to a staggering death toll of 300,000. The effectiveness of tsunami warnings is limited by their ability to reach extensive coastal areas promptly. Therefore, it is crucial for residents to be aware of their local environmental characteristics and rely on personal judgment and preparedness to mitigate the risks posed by tsunamis.

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