TSUNAMI
Tsunamis are giant waves caused by a sudden displacement of a large volume of
water, typically in the ocean. They are often mistakenly referred to as tidal waves, but
tides are caused by the gravitational forces of the moon and sun, whereas tsunamis are
a much more powerful phenomenon.
Here's a comprehensive look at tsunamis:
Causes of Tsunamis:
Earthquakes: The most common cause of tsunamis is underwater earthquakes.
When a large earthquake occurs on the ocean floor, it can abruptly displace a
massive amount of water, generating a tsunami wave.
Underwater volcanic eruptions: Explosive volcanic eruptions underwater can
also displace water and trigger tsunamis.
Landslides: Large landslides entering the ocean can displace water and cause
localized tsunamis.
Near-Earth objects: While less frequent, impacts from asteroids or comets in
the ocean could potentially generate tsunamis.
Characteristics of Tsunamis:
Long Wavelengths: Unlike wind-generated waves that have short wavelengths,
tsunamis have very long wavelengths, meaning the distance between wave
crests is vast. This allows them to travel across entire ocean basins with minimal
decrease in energy.
Increased Height Inland: Tsunami waves may appear unremarkable in deep
water, but as they approach the coast and enter shallower water, they slow down
and their height increases dramatically. This is why the danger of tsunamis is
often realized only when the wave reaches land.
Series of Waves: A tsunami is not a single wave, but rather a series of waves,
with periods (time between wave crests) ranging from minutes to hours. The first
wave may not be the largest, and subsequent waves can be even more
destructive.
Impacts of Tsunamis:
Coastal Flooding: Tsunamis can inundate coastal areas with devastating
consequences. The force of the water can demolish buildings, infrastructure, and
entire communities.
Loss of Life: Tsunamis can cause tragic loss of life due to drowning, blunt force
trauma, and injuries from debris.
Contamination: Tsunamis can contaminate freshwater sources with saltwater
intrusion and spread debris that can create hazardous waste.
Economic Damage: The destruction of infrastructure, buildings, and property
can cause significant economic losses in tsunami-affected areas.
Warning Signs of a Tsunami:
Strong earthquake: A strong earthquake, especially one centered near the
coast or underwater, is a significant warning sign of a potential tsunami.
Rapid sea level recession: If the water recedes rapidly from the shore,
exposing the seabed much further than usual, this is a strong indicator of an
incoming tsunami.
Unusual roaring sound: A loud roaring sound from the ocean can sometimes
precede a tsunami wave.
Tsunami Preparedness:
Living in a tsunami-prone area necessitates preparedness:
Know your evacuation zone: Familiarize yourself with tsunami evacuation
zones and have a plan to reach higher ground quickly in case of a warning.
Practice evacuation drills: Participate in community tsunami drills to ensure
everyone knows what to do in an emergency.
Have a tsunami preparedness kit: Assemble an emergency kit with essential
supplies like food, water, first aid supplies, and a battery-powered radio to
sustain you for several days after a tsunami.
Stay informed: Pay attention to tsunami warnings and instructions from local
authorities during an event.
