BACKGROUND: The devastating 1946 tsunami spurred the initiation of critical tsunami research in the United States, spearheaded by the University of Hawaii. Since then, scientists at the Hawaii Institute of Geophysics, the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC), and the International Tsunami Information Center (ITIC) have been instrumental in the advancement of tsunami science, working in close partnership with researchers worldwide. Their significant contributions include the early development of the Pacific Tsunami Warning System and the implementation of tsunami preparedness plans globally. This vital work has drawn the expertise of leading scientists from Alaska, other U.S. states, and a diverse range of nations spanning Europe, Asia, Australia, Oceania, and Central and South America.
Formation: In 1982, the Tsunami Society was founded at the University of Hawaii's Institute of Geophysics by Dr. George Pararas-Carayannis, the late Professor Dr. William Mansfield Adams, and the late Professor Dr. Augustine S. Furumoto. The Society was established as a professional hub, acting as a focal point for global research and actively supporting the expansion and dissemination of knowledge concerning tsunamis and related hazards.
Evolution to International Recognition: Reflecting its expanding international membership and the increasing global prominence of its award-winning publication, "SCIENCE OF TSUNAMI HAZARDS" (STH), the organization's name changed to Tsunami Society International (TSI) in 2004
Mandate and Mission: Tsunami Society International (TSI) is currently rebuilding its capacity and activities with a renewed commitment to enhancing global awareness and effective mitigation of tsunami hazards. In the past, TSI actively sponsored workshops, meetings, and symposia, and intends to strategically resume these activities in the future. It will also continue to actively disseminate essential tsunami knowledge to scientists, officials, the media, and the public through its journal "Science of Tsunami Hazards," its online presence, and various other channels. Moreover, Tsunami Society International plans to foster crucial dialogue and interaction among its members, government bodies, and the public as it regains momentum. The overarching mission of TSI remains to minimize the adverse consequences of tsunamis for communities worldwide.
Key Functions: Tsunami Society International (TSI) is dedicated to:
Fostering Research: Encouraging collaborative and multidisciplinary research on tsunami hazards.
Promoting Awareness and Preparedness: Advancing education, training, and public awareness initiatives.
Supporting Early Warning Systems: Facilitating the implementation of effective early warning systems to save lives and protect property globally.
Championing International Cooperation: Promoting regional and international collaboration in research, education, and preparedness, recognizing the shared global impact of tsunamis.
Historically, TSI has:
Past Activities: TSI has held symposiums at:
Conducted seminars and training sessions in:
At the present time the officers are:
"SCIENCE OF TSUNAMI HAZARDS": A Dedicated and Accessible Resource:
For four decades, Tsunami Society International has been committed to its mission of increasing and disseminating tsunami knowledge through its continuous publication of "SCIENCE OF TSUNAMI HAZARDS."
Recognizing the challenges of finding specific tsunami research within a multitude of general journals—often compounded by high subscription costs that limit accessibility, particularly for the public and researchers in developing countries—TSI offers a dedicated solution. "SCIENCE OF TSUNAMI HAZARDS" stands apart by providing all its publications free of charge to the global scientific community and the general public.
The journal's commitment to quality is ensured through a rigorous peer-review process conducted by an International Editorial Board of experienced scholars with diverse expertise. The resulting archive represents an unparalleled and comprehensive collection of tsunami data, research, and references.