United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on the global community to bolster early warning systems and preparedness efforts to protect coastal populations from the threat of tsunamis. During his address for World Tsunami Awareness Day 2025, Guterres emphasized that while tsunamis are infrequent, their impact can be devastating and life-threatening when communities are not adequately prepared.
“Tsunamis are rare events whose consequences can be extremely deadly,” Guterres stated, highlighting the potential for these natural disasters to claim thousands, or even hundreds of thousands, of lives. He drew attention to the lessons learned from the catastrophic 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, making a compelling case for global investments in early warning systems as essential life-saving measures.
In a recent reminder of the hazards posed by seismic activity, Guterres referenced a significant earthquake near Russia in July, which prompted timely alerts for millions in Japan, the Pacific Islands, and California. This incident underscored the critical importance of timely information during potential disasters, showcasing how effective early warning can save lives.
However, Guterres warned that the evolving landscape of disaster risks—driven by climate change, rising sea levels, and growing coastal populations—demands continuous improvement and investment in early warning systems. He advocated for the ‘Early Warnings for All’ initiative, which aims to ensure that everyone on the planet has access to a multi-hazard early warning system by 2027. “This initiative is about securing a safer future for everyone,” he asserted.
The Secretary-General stressed that acknowledging the power of the ocean and adequately preparing for potential disasters is not merely advisable; it is a responsibility that all communities share. “On this 10th World Tsunami Awareness Day, let us invest in preparedness—for every coastline and every community, everywhere,” he urged.
Guterres’ message comes as the effects of climate change and the increasing frequency of severe weather events loom larger in public discussions, particularly regarding the rising tide of natural disasters and their economic ramifications. By strengthening the resilience of vulnerable communities through effective early warning systems, there is significant potential to reduce risks associated with natural disasters. With ongoing dedication to these initiatives, there is hope for a future where disaster preparedness is enhanced, ultimately saving lives around the world.