Anatomy of a Tsunami

Hypothetical Example

The geologic cross-section on the right presents hypothetical conditions that can result in a tsunami.   It illustrates a earthquake caused by a thrust fault on the sea floor that rapidly elevates a portion of the sea floor.   A large volume of the sea is displaced, and a tsunami is set into motion.   Large waves radiate from the epicenter of the earthquake and move radially in all directions.   The waves move at a velocity in the range of 300 to 500 miles per hour (500 to 800 km per hour) until they reach land.   As they approach land, the tsunami wave amplifies dramatically and potentially causes destruction along shorelines that are encountered.

Some Useful Links

The above discussion provides basic information and illustrations for tsunamis.   To further explore this subject, excellent publications or the resources of the internet can be explored.   Following are some hyperlinks that can further assist with the evaluation and description of tsunamis:

• Tsunami (University of Washington, Washington State, USA) - Website dedicated to providing general information about tsunamis. 
• The Physics of Tsunamis (University of Washington, Washington State, USA) -  An explanation of the mechanisms of tsunami generation and propagation.
• NOAA Center for Tsunami Research (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, USA) - Research in support of improved measurement and monitoring technology of tsunamis. 

• NOAA Tsunami Website (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, USA) - Website that presents extensive information about tsunamis, tsunami monitoring, and risk reduction.

• Pacific Tsunami Museum (Pacific Tsunami Museau, Inc., Hilo, Hawaii, USA) - Website of the Pacific Tsunami Museum that includes facts about tsunamis and videos.