The upstream-downstream interface of Sri Lanka’s tsunami early warning system

Richard Haigh,Ananda Jayasinghe Arachchi,Maheshika Menike Sakalasuriya,Senaka Basnayake,Dilanthi Amaratunga,Sarath Premalal,Siri Hettige

doi:10.1108/ijdrbe-07-2019-0051

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to deliver a detailed analysis of the functioning of upstream–downstream interface process of the tsunami early warning and mitigation system in Sri Lanka. It also gives an understanding of the social, administrative, political and cultural complexities attached to the operation of interface mechanism, and introduces an analytical framework highlighting the significant dynamics of the interface of tsunami early warning system in Sri Lanka.Design/methodology/approachThrough the initial literature review, a conceptual framework was developed, highlighting the criteria against which the interface process can be assessed. This framework was used as the basis for developing data collection tools, namely, documentary analysis, semi-structured interviews and observations that focused on the key stakeholder institutions in Sri Lanka. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data according to the conceptual framework, and an improved and detailed framework was developed deriving from the findings.FindingsThe manner in which the interface mechanism operates in Sri Lanka’s tsunami early warning system is discussed, providing a detailed understanding of the decision-making structures; key actors; standardisation; technical and human capacities; socio-spatial dynamics; coordination among actors; communication and information dissemination; and the evaluation processes. Several gaps and shortcomings were identified with relation to some of these aspects, and the significance of addressing these gaps is highlighted in the paper.Practical implicationsA number of recommendations are provided to address the existing shortcomings and to improve the overall performance of tsunami warning system in Sri Lanka.Originality/valueBased on the findings, a framework was developed into a more detailed analytical framework that depicts the interface operationalisation in Sri Lanka, and can also be potentially applied to similar cases across the world. The new analytical framework was validated through a focus group discussion held in Sri Lanka with the participation of experts and practitioners.

Highlights

The 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami affected 14 countries and led to the deaths of more than 230,000 people (UNESCO, 2018)
This paper describes the results from one part of a larger study to define and understand the interface mechanism in a tsunami early warning system; identify its strengths and weaknesses; and evaluate the socio-cultural and political complexities affecting the formation of the interface mechanism
The aim of this paper is to provide an analysis of the complex political, social and cultural dynamics affecting the interface of tsunami early warning in Sri Lanka

Summary

Introduction

The 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami affected 14 countries and led to the deaths of more than 230,000 people (UNESCO, 2018). The upper deals with the detection and forecasting (Bernard and Titov, 2015; IOC/UNESCO, 2015b), and the latter with warning dissemination and evacuation (de Leon et al, 2006; IOC/UNESCO, 2015b). Between these two, there occurs the interface where the decision to warning is taken and order for evacuation is given (Sakalasuriya et al, 2018). There are clear guidelines available at the national level, this complexity makes it difficult to operationalise the process and assess its effectiveness

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Conclusion