Alerta Temprana de Tsunamis en Chile | Lafcarr

Tsunami Early Warning System in Chile to Protect Coastal Areas

• Sector: Emergency Management Technology / Tsunamis
• Location: Arica, Tarapacá, O’Higgins, Maule and Bío-Bío (Chile)
• Date: November 2018
• Client: National Emergency Office of the Ministry of the Interior (ONEMI)

Chile has taken a decisive step forward in emergency management with the implementation of an advanced tsunami early warning system, developed by Dominion and Lafcarr under the guidance of the National Emergency Office of the Ministry of the Interior (ONEMI).

A Comprehensive System to Mitigate Risks

This system, already operational in Chile’s coastal regions, enables immediate alerts to at-risk populations in the event of a potential tsunami. Through high-powered electronic sirens, video surveillance cameras and meteorological stations, clear evacuation instructions are delivered quickly and safely.

Remote Management and Redundant Communication

Designed with three independent communication channels, the system guarantees alert delivery even under adverse conditions. Activation can be performed from ONEMI’s regional offices or from the central headquarters in Santiago. Additionally, it includes portable satellite-linked kits to ensure uninterrupted operation at all times.

Infrastructure Engineered to Withstand Emergencies

Each siren is mounted on an 11 m self-supporting pole, with solar panels at 8 m to ensure energy autonomy. The entire system complies with current Chilean technical standards and is built to withstand extreme environmental conditions.

Objective: National Coverage

As part of a public–private partnership, the project aims to deploy approximately 850 sirens across all coastal risk zones in Chile, enhancing response capacity and improving the safety of millions of residents.