Table of Contents
Over three days, participants reviewed progress since the last ICG/PTWS session in April 2025 Beijing, China and addressed emerging policy and technical issues, and prepared priorities for the next full PTWS session. The meeting brought together leaders from the Pacific Tsunami Warning System community to strengthen tsunami detection, warning, preparedness, and response across the Pacific Basin. Discussions focused on advancing scientific innovation while ensuring that communities continue to benefit from practical, people-centred tsunami warning and mitigation services.
Strengthening End-to-End Tsunami Warning Services
A central theme throughout the meeting was the need to strengthen the entire tsunami warning chain, from earthquake and sea-level monitoring through to public warnings and community preparedness. Participants reviewed reports from the Pacific’s Tsunami Service Providers and examined progress made by PTWS working groups and regional organizations. The discussions highlighted the importance of operational reliability, coordinated procedures, and clear communication products that support timely decision-making by national authorities.
The Steering Committee also examined lessons emerging from recent tsunami events and exercises, reinforcing the value of continuous improvement through post-event assessments, exercises, and action tracking. Participants emphasized that technical advances must ultimately support safer coastal communities and more effective national warning systems.
Advancing Innovation in Tsunami Detection and Forecasting
Significant attention was devoted to emerging technologies that could enhance tsunami detection and forecasting. Discussions covered advances in direct ocean observations, SMART submarine cables, sea-level monitoring systems, and new approaches to data integration and forecasting.
Members explored how innovative observing technologies can complement existing seismic and sea-level networks, providing faster and more accurate information to tsunami warning centres. The Committee encouraged continued testing, evaluation, and collaboration among scientific institutions, operational centres, and technology partners to ensure that promising developments can ultimately support operational services.
Building Capacity Across the Pacific
Recognizing that national capabilities vary across the region, participants emphasized the importance of sustained capacity development. Discussions addressed national tsunami forecasting capacities, competency-based training, and support mechanisms for National Tsunami Warning Centres.
The Committee reaffirmed the importance of ensuring that all Member States, particularly Small Island Developing States and other vulnerable coastal communities, have access to the knowledge, tools, and partnerships needed to strengthen readiness and resilience.
Expanding Community Preparedness Through Tsunami Ready
The Steering Committee reviewed progress in implementing the UNESCO-IOC Tsunami Ready Recognition Programme, including ongoing work related to recognition criteria, programme equivalency, and regional implementation approaches.
Participants highlighted the value of community-based preparedness and continued efforts to support coastal communities in meeting tsunami readiness standards. Discussions also examined opportunities to strengthen partnerships and mobilize broader support for tsunami resilience through collaborative initiatives and stakeholder engagement.
