Larnaca will become the first coastal community in Cyprus, and the eastern Mediterranean region, to be designated “Tsunami-Ready” by UNESCO.
The CoastWAVE programme aims to enhance preparedness for tsunamis in coastal regions globally. The Geological Survey Department leads local coordination efforts for Larnaca’s participation.
Earning “Tsunami-Ready” status signifies a commitment to minimising potential losses from tsunamis. This will be achieved through public awareness campaigns, infrastructure development, evacuation plan formulation, and overall preparedness measures.
Larnaca’s candidacy is based on its vulnerability due to low elevation and flat topography, as well as extensive coastal development and the presence of Larnaca International Airport.
The city is pioneering the use of high-resolution local simulations for evacuation planning within the Mediterranean-North Atlantic region.
The Geological Survey Department’s efforts include risk zone mapping, evacuation plan development, signage installation, equipment deployment for monitoring and early warning, and updates to the national disaster plan. Public awareness campaigns and risk perception assessments are also underway.
Initial signage installation guiding residents to escape routes and assembly points has begun. Completion of the signage system and distribution of informative brochures are expected by year-end, alongside siren installations.
Larnaca is anticipated to receive the “Tsunami-Ready” designation by 2026.
