By Michael Shanks, Director, Business Development, Genasys Inc
The recent 7.0 earthquake has served as a stark reminder of California’s vulnerability to natural disasters, including tsunamis. As outlined in the Los Angeles Times article, the threat is not hypothetical—it’s a real and urgent danger. While California has made strides in preparedness, there’s still significant work to do in ensuring that communities are equipped with the tools and resources necessary to respond effectively when disaster strikes.
At Genasys, our mission is to protect and connect people when it matters most. Here’s how our solutions can play a critical role in addressing tsunami and seismic risks:
1. Delivering Clear and Immediate Warnings
Tsunamis require clear, and widespread communication to alert communities about incoming waves. The Genasys Emergency Management (Genasys ALERT) platform enables emergency managers to send targeted, multilingual alerts via SMS, email, voice calls, social media, and acoustic devices, ensuring no one is left uninformed.
2. Guiding Evacuations with Precision
Time is everything during a tsunami evacuation. Genasys EVAC ensures that alerts are delivered to individuals in the specific areas affected, avoiding confusion and guiding people to safety in real time.
3. Enhancing Public Awareness and Readiness
Preparedness begins long before disaster strikes. Genasys solutions are designed to educate and engage communities about risks and response plans. Through regular drills and public safety campaigns facilitated by our platforms, residents can be empowered to act decisively in emergencies.
4. Reinforcing Infrastructure with Long-Range Acoustics
For areas with limited cell service or high tourist populations, Genasys long-range acoustic devices (LRADs) provide a critical communication layer. These devices deliver life-saving voice messages and sirens that cut through ambient noise and ensure everyone, even those without access to mobile alerts, hears the message clearly.
A Wake-Up Call for Preparedness
The recent earthquake is a wake-up call for all of us. By integrating advanced technologies like Genasys, California can take a proactive step toward mitigating the impacts of tsunamis and ensuring that communities remain resilient in the face of natural disasters.
At Genasys, we’re committed to working with public agencies, local governments, and emergency managers to make California—and the world—a safer place. Let’s use this moment to prepare, protect, and save lives.
Learn more on our seismic emergencies page or contact Genasys to learn more about how intelligent voice speakers can transform your emergency response strategy.