Tsunami

TSUNAMI

A tsunami consists of a series of waves generated in an ocean, sea, or other water bodies due to an earthquake, landslide, volcanic eruption, or meteorite impact. When these tsunamis reach coastlines, they can inflict significant destruction. Although some individuals refer to tsunamis as "tidal waves," this term is misleading as these large waves are not primarily related to tides.

Tsunami waves differ from the typical waves that roll into the shores of lakes or oceans. The latter are generated by wind offshore and are relatively small compared to tsunami waves. In the open ocean, a tsunami wave can span over 100 kilometers, which is approximately the length of 1000 American football fields! These waves are massive and can travel at speeds of about 700 km/hr, yet they are only about one meter high in the open ocean.

As a tsunami wave approaches shallower waters near the coast, it decelerates and increases in height. While a tsunami may be barely noticeable at sea, it can rise to several meters near the shore, carrying an immense amount of energy. Upon reaching the coast, a tsunami may manifest as a rapidly rising or falling tide or as a series of waves that can reach heights of 25 to 30 meters.

Moments before a tsunami wave strikes, the water near the shore may recede, revealing the ocean floor. It is important to note that the first wave is not always the largest, and subsequent waves may arrive at intervals of 10 to 60 minutes, moving much faster than a person can run. The threat posed by a tsunami can persist for several hours following the arrival of the initial wave.

In contrast to other types of waves, tsunami waves generally do not curl or break. The coasts impacted by a tsunami will experience severe erosion. A tsunami can inundate areas hundreds of meters inland, with water moving with such force that it can demolish homes and other structures.

How Are Tsunamis Formed....

physical-characteristics-of-tsunamis