Q6B · Describe in detail how GIS can be beneficial in real-time tsunami monitoring.

Answer

For tsunami management, GIS provides a common location-based picture for agencies. Data quality, access, update time and field verification determine its usefulness.

Swipe across the diagram to read its labels ↔

Diagram: GIS combines location-based layers for decisions. Labels: GIS combines location-based layers for decisions | GIS combines location-based layers for decisions | Hazard layer | Flood extent / slope / drought | Exposure layer | People, homes, roads, hospitals | Resources layer | Shelters, teams, water supply | Decision supported | Which places face danger? Who needs | assistance? Which route is usable? Where | should resources go? | Check data dates, accuracy and field reports; a map is decision support.

1. Mitigation. Combine coastal elevation, modelled inundation and exposed settlements to guide land use and locate critical facilities outside high-risk areas.
2. Preparedness. Map safe high ground, marked routes, travel time, shelters and people needing assistance. Use realistic scenarios in evacuation drills.
3. Response. Overlay verified inundation, blocked roads, stranded people and available rescue resources. Use updated information to select safer access and prioritise urgent assistance.
4. Recovery. Compare before/after imagery, map damage and service restoration, plan safer reconstruction and monitor whether assistance reaches affected settlements.

Remote sensing can update affected-area mapping, but weather, resolution, signal availability and processing time may limit observations. Protect sensitive household and health information when sharing maps.

For monitoring, GIS can display incoming seismic/ocean observations, modelled arrival/inundation information and affected coastlines. The sensors measure the phenomenon; GIS combines and presents geographically referenced information for decisions.