Seismic Data and Tsunami Alert Centre (SDTAC) of the GSMB was established soon after the catastrophic tsunami of 26th of December 2004. One of the main objectives of this centre is to assist the authorities to issue timely tsunami warnings by monitoring the seismic activity of the Indian Ocean. The Centre receives real-time seismic data from the PALK seismic station at Pallekele, Kandy and 10 other global stations. In addition, Waveform Data from a number of stations including the stations in Cocos island, Diego Garcia, Australia are available through Integrated Deployment of Accelerometers (IDA) Data Tools, as initial information. The event confirmation is based on CISN (California Integrated Seismic Network), information from USGS and Japanese Meteorology Agency.
The Centre is also monitoring seismic activity in and around Sri Lanka using seismic station at Pallekele, Kandy. The Centre is operating round the clock and the general public can make inquiries about tsunami threats and earthquakes / tremors at any time by calling to 011-2729227. The Centre has been a very useful facility for the coastal habitants in view of eliminating their unfounded fear due to false news and rumours. The SDTAC requests the general public to report any earth tremors or unusual ground vibrations felt in various parts of the country. In this respect exact time of the event, location and true nature of the observation are important.
