Effectiveness of Engineered Tsunami Mitigation Measures: A Review of Current Approaches and Research Needs, Part I: Field Surveys

Abstract

Tsunamis, though infrequent, pose catastrophic threats to coastal communities and infrastructure, underscoring the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies. This review provides a comprehensive evaluation of current engineered countermeasures, specifically seawalls, breakwaters, and water-filled canals, by synthesizing findings from post-tsunami field surveys. Evidence from major events, such as the 2011 Tohoku Tsunami, indicates that well-designed structural measures can substantially reduce tsunami wave energy and delay inland inundation, thereby improving the resilience of coastal infrastructure. However, their effectiveness depends heavily on proper geometric configuration, construction quality, regular maintenance, and integration with non-structural measures such as evacuation planning. Recent experimental and numerical investigations have also highlighted the potential of innovative countermeasures, in attenuating bore forces and protecting critical infrastructure. Despite advancements, significant knowledge gaps remain, particularly concerning the long-term reliability, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability of these systems under diverse tsunami conditions. This critical review aims to identify these gaps and outline key priorities for future research and development. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of structural tsunami mitigation and support the advancement of integrated, resilient strategies for reducing disaster risk in tsunami-prone regions worldwide.