Lahore, The Indian Ocean Wave 2023 (IOWave23) exercise, a major initiative by UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC), has significantly strengthened tsunami preparedness across the Indian Ocean region. Conducted from October 4 to October 25, 2023, this comprehensive exercise involved all 25 active Member States of the IOC Intergovernmental Coordination Group for the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System (ICG/IOTWMS).

According to United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), IOWave23 featured three tsunami scenarios caused by earthquakes in the Andaman, Makran, and Java trenches, and a fourth scenario based on a volcanic eruption on Heard Island. Nineteen Member States, including Australia, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, and several others, actively participated in the exercises. The inclusion of various community groups, notably in line with the theme of World Tsunami Awareness Day 2023, highlighted the emphasis on fighting inequality for a resilient future. The exercise witnessed significant community evacuation drills in several countries, with India and Indonesia conducting major evacuations during different scenarios.

IOWave23 provided a platform for National Tsunami Warning Centres, Disaster Management Organizations, first responders, and media to collaborate and test national tsunami warning chains and Standard Operating Procedures. A key achievement was the issuance of new tsunami threat bulletins by the Joint Australian Tsunami Warning Center for non-earthquake-induced tsunamis during the Heard Island Volcano scenario. This event marked a holistic approach to identifying and responding to various tsunami-generating events in the Indian Ocean basin.

The exercise, which was extensively covered by national broadcasting media and social media, is part of UNESCO’s ongoing efforts to enhance tsunami preparedness. IOWave23 is the seventh exercise of its kind since the establishment of the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System, operational since 2011. UNESCO’s IOC remains committed to promoting scientific collaboration and effective early warning systems to mitigate tsunami risks. The success of IOWave23 reflects the collective determination of Indian Ocean nations to enhance regional resilience and preparedness for potential tsunami events.