Evaluation and strengthening of early warning systems in countries affected by the 26 December 2004 tsunami

This initiative has provided an overall integrated framework for strengthening early warning systems in the Indian Ocean, and has been focusing on key components that include core system implementation, integrated risk management, public awareness and education, community-based approaches, as well as coordination and building partnerships. To date, several activities have been completed and major achievements include: The development of regional inter-governmental processes to support the establishment of tsunami early warning systems in the Indian Ocean; Significant progress towards awareness raising and capacity building in advocacy with more engagement from the media and non-governmental organizations; and coordination of joint efforts of many key organizations in the UN and the region towards linking tsunami warning systems to other hazard warning systems and to disaster risk management.