World Tsunami Awareness Day
Tsunamis kill fast — early warning and evacuation knowledge saves lives.
About
World Tsunami Awareness Day on November 5 aims to spread tsunami knowledge and share innovative approaches to risk reduction. Tsunamis — triggered by underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides — can strike coastal areas with little warning. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami killed over 227,000 people in 14 countries. Effective early warning systems, public education, and community preparedness are the best defences against these catastrophic events.
History
The United Nations General Assembly designated November 5 as World Tsunami Awareness Day in December 2015. The date was proposed by Japan — which has an extensive history with tsunamis and leads the world in tsunami preparedness — and reflects a Japanese practice of conducting tsunami evacuation drills on November 5, connected to an old tale of a village leader who burned his rice crop to warn villagers of an incoming tsunami.
Where It's Observed
Cultural Context
US United States
The US West Coast, Hawaii, and Alaska face significant tsunami risk. World Tsunami Awareness Day drives evacuation drill campaigns, signage improvements, and public education in vulnerable coastal communities, coordinated by NOAA and FEMA.
KR South Korea
South Korea's East Sea coastline is exposed to tsunami risk from Japan's seismic zones. The day prompts government-led evacuation drills and public awareness campaigns, and Korean coastal communities practice emergency response procedures.
JP Japan
Japan is the world's most tsunami-aware nation, following devastating events including the 2011 Tōhoku tsunami that killed nearly 16,000 people and triggered the Fukushima nuclear disaster. Every coastal Japanese community practises evacuation procedures, and Japan's early warning system is a global model.
How to Participate
- 01Learn the tsunami warning signs — withdrawal of the sea, ground shaking, or a loud roar
- 02Find your nearest tsunami evacuation route if you live in a coastal area
- 03Support disaster preparedness organisations in vulnerable communities
- 04Talk with children about what to do if they ever experience an earthquake near the coast
Frequently asked questions
When is World Tsunami Awareness Day?+
World Tsunami Awareness Day is observed annually on November 5. The date is fixed each year — November 5 — and does not shift based on the lunar calendar or weekday.
What is World Tsunami Awareness Day?+
World Tsunami Awareness Day on November 5 aims to spread tsunami knowledge and share innovative approaches to risk reduction. Tsunamis — triggered by underwater earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides — can strike coastal areas with little warning. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami killed over 22…
Is World Tsunami Awareness Day a public holiday?+
World Tsunami Awareness Day is an international observance or awareness day, not a public holiday in most countries. It does not typically result in days off work or school closures, though some countries and organisations hold official events.
How can I participate in World Tsunami Awareness Day?+
Learn the tsunami warning signs — withdrawal of the sea, ground shaking, or a loud roar Find your nearest tsunami evacuation route if you live in a coastal area Support disaster preparedness organisations in vulnerable communities These are some of the most accessible ways to engage with the day's purpose.
Which countries observe World Tsunami Awareness Day?+
Global — particularly Pacific Rim and Indian Ocean nations.
Mark the date
Download a free printable calendar for 2026 and never miss World Tsunami Awareness Day.