Tsunamis: Seismological and disaster prevention studies

Japanese tsunami studies in the 1980's are reviewed. Because of the multi-disciplinary nature of the phenomenon, tsunamis are studied by researchers from various fields, including seismologists, geologists, oceanographers and coastal engineers. The tsunami from the 1983 Japan Sea earthquake caused 100 fatalities, and stimulated tsunami research, cooperation of workers from various fields for comprehensive work, and development of a quick tsunami warning system. Recent research developments include descriptive studies of the size and location of past tsunamis, tsunami observational systems, the generation and propagation of tsunamis, coastal effects, and a tsunami warning system.