One of the reasons for the inability to anticipate the Tohoku-oki earthquake in the Pacific Ocean is the inadequacy of predictions that solely utilize models based on previously available earthquake data. In order to evaluate the probability of an earthquake occurrence more accurately, there is a need for data that shows the changes in plate coupling at plate boundaries, as well as the development of a numerical model utilizing such data. JAMSTEC is making efforts towards the creation of numerical models based on observation data, including the development of a continuous observation system on the ocean floor.

Regarding future changes in storm surges and storm waves, there are many reports of research projecting to increase in the intensity and frequency of strong events due to climate change. As infrastructures such as breakwaters and seawalls require decades of work from the planning stages to implementation, we have reached a time where we must give serious thought to coming up with a long-term plan before an extreme disaster strikes, and strengthen monitoring that can detect warming signals.

It has been almost 120 years since the first diver emerged from Taneichi in Hirono Town, Kunobe District, Iwate Prefecture, where the coast faces the Pacific Ocean, and the Oyashio Current and Kuroshio Current run into each other. Nanbu moguri (diving) is well known in Japan’s diving industry. Taneichi Senior High School, located in the birthplace of the diving technique, is the only school nationwide that conducts a curriculum specifically for divers to work in underwater engineering, and continues to send out talent that will take on future ocean development.