Risk assessment of the tsunami hazard

Abstract

When the tsunami risk is potentially life-threatening or damaging to property, as often is the case, there is a paramount need to evaluate this risk in order to reduce or mitigate factors endangering public safety and property in coastal communities which have been historically impacted by such natural hazards. The risk potential of tsunamis is of extensive interest to governmental, non-governmental agencies, and to industries and the public in general. No matter how remote, the likelihood of a tsunami should be considered in developing coastal zone management and land use. While some degree of risk is acceptable, government agencies should promote new development and population growth in areas of greater safety and less potential risk. This paper provides some of the appropriate guidelines and methodology needed for the evaluation of the tsunami risk in terms of frequency of occurrence, severity of impact, design adequacy of important coastal structures, and finally, in terms of preparedness and planning for hazard mitigation. -from Author