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津波警報が発表されたら、すぐに高台に避難してください。
If a tsunami warning is issued, evacuate to high ground immediately.
An official alert issued by authorities warning of an imminent or occurring tsunami.
気象庁は津波警報を発表した。
The Japan Meteorological Agency issued a tsunami warning.
Issued when there is a high risk of a tsunami affecting coastal areas. Often accompanied by evacuation advisories.
津波警報 (tsunami warning) indicates a higher risk than 津波注意報 (tsunami advisory). Think of 警報 as 'warning' (urgent action needed) and 注意報 as 'advisory' (be cautious but not immediate danger).
Composed of 津波 (tsunami) + 警報 (warning). 津波 combines 津 (harbor) and 波 (wave), while 警報 combines 警 (warning) and 報 (report). The term reflects Japan's frequent experience with tsunami events and the need for structured disaster communication.
In Japan, tsunami warnings are classified into different levels (e.g., 大津波警報 for major tsunami, 津波警報 for tsunami). Always follow local evacuation instructions during a warning.