PROJECT TITLE:

Tsunami Observer Program

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR:

Philip Moravcik

SPONSOR:

Department of Defense, State of Hawaii (Civil Defense Division)

PROJECT PERIOD:

August 1, 2009 - July 31, 2010

INTRODUCTION:

Over the course of 2006-2009 the Tsunami Observer Program was reestablished with the ability to record crucial data associated with tsunami events. In addition to gathering data, the participating observers also contribute an added means of warning residents and visitors of pending tsunami inundation. It is the goal of the Tsunami Observer Program to collect visual and recorded data of tsunamis as they occur and post-tsunami data such as run-up and inundation limits. These two data sets are critical to the development, testing, and use of tsunami numerical models which are then used to refine tsunami evacuation maps and procedures. The data are also used to investigate historical events as well as test projected future events. The footage and images collected during events will be used well into the future as an educational resource. Procedures, flowcharts and policies have been put into place to ensure that these sets of data are collected accurately, quickly and safely by the volunteer observers.

To ensure that the Tsunami Observer Program continues to function at the optimum level the following overall goals have been outlined for 2009/2010.

OBJECTIVES:

• Continue the recruitment of new volunteers where needed.
• Maintain and replace (if necessary) equipment belonging to the program.
• Ensure that all observers are updated regularly on changes to procedures or policy.
• Provide remote assistance to all observers with equipment on preparatory measures.
• Continued consultation with the Technical Directors on all technical matters.
• Maintain all agreements that provide access and/or facility usage for the observers during or after an event.
• Forward official outreach warnings to affected personnel in the event of a tsunami warning.