Taking into account the tsunami that hit Japan in March, 2011, learning about this deadly natural force has become even more important. One way of doing so is by visiting the Pacific Tsunami Museum. Hawaii, by its very geographical nature and location, not only faces the daily risk of volcanic eruptions but tsunamis as well. It?s one of the reasons why many of the world?s leading research centers on earthquakes, volcanoes, tsunamis and other similar occurrences are based in America?s tropical state.

The Pacific Tsunami Museum is one such site, and it?s a good thing that the place is open to the public. In the museum, visitors may learn more about the machines used to determine potential incoming tsunamis and earthquakes. Such machines include the tsunami warning center simulator as well as the energy of water wave machine.

Visitors may also learn more about the countries that suffered some of the worst tsunamis in history, which include the 50?s tsunami exhibit, the 2004 Indian Ocean display, the Papua New Guinea gallery, and the Story of Hilo exhibit.