Phivolcs to install tsunami sensors nationwide

Ten tsunami sensors will be installed nationwide to enhance the government’s tsunami early warning system, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said yesterday.

Phivolcs director Dr. Renato Solidum told reporters that the installation of sensors is part of the government’s disaster mitigation program.

Solidum, however, did not identify the areas where the sensors will be installed, but said the sensors will be able to cover the western and eastern coasts.

The sensor was developed by a Phivolcs scientist and the price of each sensor is affordable.

To date, the country has one tsunami sensor placed in Lubang island in Mindoro.

Solidum said the Institute is likewise intensifying its community-based early warning system (CBEWS) in the provinces.

Early this year, Phivolcs started conducting tsunami drills in Surigao del Sur and Surigao del Norte as part of the agency’s community-based disaster-preparedness and management program.

Solidum said the program, amounting to P2.3 million, was funded by the Finish government.

Surigao del Sur and Surigao del Norte are at risk to tsunami and storm surge since these are island provinces. Surigao del Norte consists of three major islands – Dinagat, Siargao, and Bucas Grande. On the other hand, Surigao del Sur is located at the eastern coast of Mindanao and faces the Philippine sea.

By providing early warnings and appropriate precautionary measures, Phivolcs aim to mitigate damage and casualties brought about by natural calamities.

Solidum earlier said they would focus at the provincial level since all active volcanoes are located in the provinces.

A tsunami is a series of waves created when a body of water, such as an ocean is rapidly displaced on a massive scale. Tsunami waves – generated by earthquakes – are often barely noticeable in the ocean but can rise to great heights once they arrive at shore.