The First Session of the Intergovernmental Coordination Group for the Tsunami Early Warning and Mitigation System in the North Eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean and connected Seas (ICG/NEAMTWS), established by the IOC Assembly during its 23rd Session in June 2005, through Resolution XXIII-14, took place in Rome on 21st and 22nd November 2005, at Palazzo Taverna.The Meeting, kindly hosted by the by the Government of Italy (Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry for Environment and Protection of the Territory), was attended by more than 150 participants from 24 countries, 13 organizations and numerous observers.Reports from national, regional and international organizations were presented on the development of a tsunami and multi-hazard regional early warning system and provided the basis for working group discussions on the establishment of such a system in the North Eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean and connected seas.The Tsunami Warning System will be based on existing seismographic and sealevel networks, with appropriate upgrade to real time operation. Several national and local warning systems under development will be fully integrated into this initiative. Nations committed themselves to work towards upgrading legislation and existing detection systems, and to develop integrated national emergency preparedness and awareness plans.The ICG nominated Italy as Chair of the Intergovernmental Coordination Group, position that will be served by Professor Stefano Tinti, University of Bologna, for two years assisted by two Vice-chairs, Morocco and Greece, positions that will be served by Dr Azelbarab El Mouraouah, Coordinator, Centre Euro-Méditerranéen pour l’Evaluation et la Prévention du Risque Sismique —CEPRIS of Rabat, and Dr Gerassimos Papadopoulos, National Observatory of Athens.During the intersessional period four working groups will address issues concerning the formulation and operationalization of a multi-hazard early warning system for the North Eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean and connected seas:1. Hazard assessment, risk and modelling2. Seismic and geophysical measurements3. Sea level measurements4. Advisory, mitigation and public awarenessThe ICG will work towards the formulation of a complete plan of action by December 2006, including the implementation of an initial operational system by December 2007. The next session of the ICG/NEAMTWS will take place in May 2006. |
