A US inventor has unveiled a revolutionary shelter concept that could become the first line of defense for governments against two of the most devastating natural events on the planet, tsunamis and major floods.

Rendering depicting system in use

This novel shelter, capable of floating, could prove to be an invaluable contribution toward emergency preparedness worldwide.

"After watching the devastation and aftermath of the 2004 Indonesian tsunami and hurricane Katrina events, I committed myself to designing a preparedness tool capable of offering an effective level of protection against such catastrophic events" said Miguel A. Serrano, a land development consultant from Puerto Rico .

"The end result is a revolutionary shelter system that is both highly effective, and cost efficient", he added.

This new system, for which a US patent has been allowed, is called the STATIM (Storm, Tornado And Tsunami Interconnected Modules) Shelter System. In essence, it is an enclosable hull comprised of a series of pre-cast concrete modules, similar to large diameter concrete drainage pipes.

Once assembled via gasketed joints, and a post-tensioned cables technique, it provides a water-tight environment with positive buoyancy and self-righting capability.

Inside, the shelters are equipped with secure seating arrangements for as many as 50 occupants, ventilation, and various options of survival gear and supplies capable of sustaining the occupants during and after the actual event, until available rescue resources can assist. The STATIM Shelter can be considered the equivalent of an "inland" life boat.