Prior and Real-Time Estimations of Ground Motions, Tsunamis, and Other Geodynamic Hazards

In this research area, methodologies for prior predictions of potential hazards and real-time estimations of progressing hazards caused by earthquakes and volcanic eruptions are proved for disaster mitigation. The studies are based on the latest understanding of earthquake processes, volcanic activities, and the crustal structure. The studies have been conducted through the co-operation of the research fields of disaster prevention engineering and social science, in conjunction with the practical services of on-site works, to effectively provide the people with advance and immediately prior predictions. Predicting hazard potentials with high accuracy is important to the planning of disaster countermeasures. The hazards include ground motions, tsunamis, and land slides due to earthquakes as well as flows of volcanic ash and lava from volcanic activities. Real-time estimation of hazards and simultaneous transmission of the estimated results are also help in the mitigation of secondary hazards that followed the main disaster. Typical examples of the results are presented in this review paper.