marine kenya: Tsunami Programe (ICG/IOTWS)

Tsunami Warning Focal Points (TWFPs)

The Tsunami Warning Focal Point (TWFP) is a 7x24 contact person, or other official point of contact or address designated by a government, available at the national level for rapidly receiving and issuing tsunami event information (such as warnings). The Tsunami Warning Focal Point either is the emergency authority (civil defense or other designated agency responsible for public safety), or has the responsibility of notifying the emergency authority of the event characteristics (earthquake and/or tsunami), in accordance with national standard operating procedures. The Tsunami Warning Focal Point receives international tsunami warnings from the Regional Tsunami Service Providers (RTSPs) for the IOTWS. The role of the TWFP is summarised as follows:

• Reception of the messages transmitted by the Regional Tsunami Service Providers

• Evaluate and issue national warnings in accordance with the National Emergency Plan

• Transmission of warning messages to the National Emergency Authorities

• Operating 24/7

About the Tsunami Programme

The Indonesian coast, between Banda Aceh and Meulaboh, after the earthquake and the tsunami of 26 December 2004. Photo by Evan Schneider © UN Photo

UNESCO supports Member States in improving capabilities for tsunami risk assessment, implementing early warning systems and enhancing preparedness of communities at risk. UNESCO works closely with national institutions and promotes inter-institutional and regional cooperation. Specialized regional centers provide tsunami information that, together with national analysis, is the basis of the warnings issued for the public. In addition, UNESCO promotes community-based approaches in the development of response plans and awareness campaigns which strongly involve education institutions and end-users.