All papers submitted for publication in SCIENCE OF TSUNAMI HAZARDS undergo a standardized peer review process involving the Editor, members of the Editorial Board, and reviewers with specialized expertise. This process is designed to support consistent editorial handling and to ensure that the journal maintains high standards of scholarly excellence. The review process also helps determine whether a submission presents original research and findings that make a valuable contribution to the understanding of tsunami hazards, or whether further clarification or revision is needed before publication.
Each manuscript first receives an initial assessment by the Editor and at least two members of the Editorial Board. It is then sent to one or two additional colleagues with relevant specialized expertise for further evaluation. This extensive review process may take up to one month and is intended to ensure the highest standards of professional quality for papers that may subsequently be accepted for publication.
The peer review process is straightforward. When a manuscript is submitted, the Editor or a member of the Editorial Board contacts potential reviewers from a roster of experts, usually by email. Once reviewers are assigned, they receive an anonymized copy of the manuscript, without the author's name, together with any accompanying illustrations. Reviewers are typically given approximately two to four weeks to complete their evaluation.
Reviewers are asked to assess several key criteria, including the originality and significance of the contribution, the rigor of the research, the adequacy of supporting evidence, the clarity and organization of the text, the effective use of figures, and the completeness of the references. They may also comment on whether the manuscript's title is appropriate, whether additional background is needed, and whether the paper should be expanded or condensed.
The completed reviews and any accompanying comments are then evaluated by the Editor or the responsible member of the Editorial Board. Based on this evaluation, a recommendation is made regarding whether the manuscript should be accepted or rejected. The submitting author is then notified of the decision and receives an explanation, together with guidance on any changes, additions, or deletions that may be required.