Tsunamis and Storm Surges: Introduction to Coastal Disasters
In 2011, a magnitude 9.0 earthquake triggered a major tsunami that devastated northeast Japan, killing more than 15,000 people and crippling a nuclear power plant.
Natural disasters like this one can be seen throughout our Earths history. They will continue to prey on all regions, bringing devastation when they strike. This course asks why people are so powerless, and analysis how to improve preparedness over the world and limit the devastation caused by coastal disasters.
Waseda University will share its experiences and achievements in disaster prevention with the rest of the world.
This environmental studies course will teach about coastal disasters. Using worldwide field surveys, students will develop an understanding of the nature of tsunamis and storm surges. Students will learn how coastal areas are attacked, understand how human lives are lost and infrastructure destroyed. Using numerical simulations and hydraulic experiments, this course will present students with different scenarios, teaching about the mechanisms behind a coastal disaster.
Students will look at successful coastal disaster prevention concepts and methods. This will include defenses such as coastal dikes, as well as the implementation of essential evacuation plans. Ultimately, students will learn how to reduce the effects of coastal disasters and how to protect themselves and others if a disaster strikes.
Whether an emergency management official, a city developer, an engineering student, or living in a potential natural coastal disaster community, this environmental studies course will teach how to improve disaster preparedness and management throughout the world.