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The Hong Kong Observatory invited two tsunami experts, Mr Yasuo Sekita, Senior Assistant for Seismological Information, and Mr Yuji Nishimae, Scientific Officer, both from the Seismological and Volcanological Department of the Japan Meteorological Agency to deliver a series of lectures on tsunami at the Hong Kong Observatory from May 18 to 20. A total of 57 participants from 25 departments of the Hong Kong Government, local universities and the Macao Meteorological and Geophysical Bureau attended the lectures.

Both the Japan Meteorological Agency and the Hong Kong Observatory are members of the Pacific Tsunami Warning System. Japan has experienced many tsunamis in the past and is most advanced in tsunami detection, prediction and warning. The lectures organised by the Hong Kong Observatory aim to help relevant government departments and organisations in Hong Kong to keep abreast with international development in tsunami.

Mr Derek Joseph Hayes, Chief Engineer of the Civil Engineering and Development Department said, "Japan is very experienced in tsunami detection and prediction. The lectures enrich our knowledge of tsunami."  

Dr Chow Kwok-wing, Associate Professor of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Hong Kong said, "The lectures organised by the Hong Kong Observatory enhance our understanding of tsunami. They are very useful."

Ends/Friday, May 20, 2005

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