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Tsunami warning system in Japan

Keiji Doi
1-3-4 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 100-8122, Japan.
Tel. : +81-3-3212-8341 ext. 4505, Fax: +81-3-3212-2857,
E-mail: keijidoi@met.kishou.go.jp

Abstract:
The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) is the unique agency in the government of Japan which is responsible for issuing tsunami forecasts by analysing seismic data from the nationwide observation network on a real-time basis 24 hours a day and seven days a week.

In order that authorities of the national government and local governments can take emergency response to reduce tsunami disasters properly and immediately, the JMA issues tsunami warning/advisory three minutes after an earthquake occurrence if a tsunami is anticipated to have been generated by it.

The JMA is using the empirical relationship between an earthquake location/magnitude and tsunami generation for its tsunami forecast at present. The JMA is planning to introduce a new method for its tsunami forecast using a numerical model of tsunami generation/propagation in early 1999.

The paper will introduce the present status for tsunami forecast and JMA’s efforts for improving its technology and operation.