NATIONAL SEISMIC MONITORING AND TSUNAMI EARLY WARNING CENTRE, KARACHI
Fig1. Simulation Scenario of 28th November 1945 Tsunami in Indian Ocean, with Magnitude of 8.7
Introduction:
After Indian Ocean Tsunami of 26th December, 2004 and Kashmir Earthquake of 8th October, 2005, keeping in view the potential Seismic and tsunami risk in MSZ along Pakistan coast. Makran Subduction zone has potential to generate future tsunami in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean, Earthquake of 28th November 1945 , with Magnitude of 8.7 epicenter Near Pasni at 24.5 N 63.0 E in Arabian Sea, generated a destructive tsunami in Indian Ocean. More than 4,000 people were killed along the Coast of Pakistan and neighboring countries like Iran, India and Oman was also effect of by same tsunami and earthquake.
Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has established a state-of-the art Seismic Monitoring and Tsunami Early Warning Centre at PMD Complex, Karachi, PMD is only responsible organization in our country for monitoring earthquakes and Tsunami. The National Tsunami Early warning Centre, has been operational since 28th November, 2008 on 24/7 round-the-clock basis, the operational mandate of the NTWC is to quickly estimate the source parameters of earthquake & Tsunami events in the region in Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean, immediately disseminate the Early Warnings / information to all stakeholders including media, vulnerable community and Disasters Management Authorities followed by SOP. In order to achieve the objectives NTWC uses more than 30 Broad band and short period Seismic Stations (National Network) and More than 100 Global Seismographic networks data.
24/7 Emergency Response:
Seismic and tsunami events can occur at any time, requiring continuous monitoring and rapid response, ensuring public safety around the clock.
Dissemination of Early Warnings:
Disseminating early warnings to disaster management organizations, communities, exposed elements located in inundation areas such as ports and power plants, early warnings allow for the activation of protective measures to reduce damages. Dissemination of warnings/information Through SMS, Fax, Emails, what’s up and Trigging Sirens
Public Safety and Awareness:
The center is involved in public awareness and education initiatives, including conducting drills and providing information to vulnerable communities and is integral to public safety and national security.
Policy and Planning:
Provide valuable data and analysis to government agencies and policymakers, helping them develop and implement effective disaster response and recovery plans.
International/Regional Cooperation:
Tsunamis can have far-reaching effects that extend beyond national borders. International cooperation and the sharing of data and expertise are vital for a comprehensive and effective warning system. The collaboration between the National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) of Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in the context of the Indian Ocean region is crucial for enhancing tsunami preparedness, early warning capabilities, and disaster risk reduction efforts
NTWC participate in IOWAVE Exercise
The National Tsunami Warning Center (NTWC) participating in the Indian Ocean Wave Exercise (IOWAVE) aimed to improving tsunami preparedness and response capabilities in the Indian Ocean region. Such exercises involve various stakeholders, including national tsunami warning centers, disaster management agencies, scientific institutions, and international organizations.
Participation in IOWAVE allows the NTWC to test its communication systems, evaluate response procedures, and enhance coordination with other countries and organizations involved in tsunami early warning and mitigation efforts. These exercises typically simulate a tsunami scenario, providing an opportunity for participants to assess their readiness and identify areas for improvement.
By actively engaging in exercises like IOWAVE, the NTWC contributes to the broader goal of building resilience to tsunamis and minimizing the potential impact of these destructive natural hazards on coastal communities.
National Seismic Monitoring & Tsunami Early Warning Center SEISMOMETER NETWORK
The seismometer network can detect earthquakes in real time, providing early warnings for potential seismic events and, subsequently, tsunamis. This allows for the issuance of timely warnings to potentially affected areas.
Seismic Network of PMD
| Islamabad Skardu Lahore Katas Tarbella Cherat Gilgit Pattan Fortmunro Nagar Parker Turbat Khuzdar Quetta Zhob Chitral Muzaffarabad Balakot Bahawalnagar Umerkot Rohari Gwadar Karachi |
TSUNAMI DECISION SUPPORT SOFTWARE (Real Time Modeling)
Tsunami Decision Support Software TOAST has been installed, which is linked with Earthquake Analysis Software and can calculate estimated Tsunami Arrival Times and wave heights at any point of interest along Coast.
PMD Tsunami Timeline and Pakistan Warning Level
When there is a race between a tsunami warning and the actual tsunami wave due to a shortage of time, it highlights a critical challenge in issuing timely warnings to people in at-risk areas. In such cases, the focus should be on maximizing the speed and efficiency of the warning system and preparedness to minimize the risk and potential loss of life.
Overall, the NTWC plays a vital role in safeguarding coastal communities from the threat of tsunamis through its monitoring, evaluation, warning issuance, coordination, education, and research efforts.