Tsunami: The Monster Wave Explained

1. What Causes a Tsunami?

A tsunami is not a regular wave. It's a series of giant waves triggered by an underwater shock. The main causes are:

• Underwater Earthquakes - When a fault line breaks under the ocean, the seabed shifts violently, displacing massive amounts of water.

• Underwater Volcanic Eruptions - Some eruptions create a sudden displacement of water, generating shock waves.

• Underwater Landslides - When a large rock mass collapses into the ocean, it pushes water outward, forming waves.

  
  

• Meteorite Impacts - Rare but devastating, they can displace enormous amounts of water in all directions, causing tsunamis.

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2. How Does a Tsunami Form?

A tsunami starts with an underwater disturbance but follows a precise process:

• Trigger - The event (earthquake, eruption, landslide…) suddenly shifts water.

  
  

• Propagation - The wave travels at an incredible speed, up to 800 km/h in deep water.

  
  

• Coastal Approach - As it reaches shallow water, the wave slows but rises dramatically.

• Impact - The water surges onto land with destructive force.

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3. How to Stay Safe from a Tsunami?

• Early Warning - An underwater earthquake is often an alert. Some countries have advanced detection systems.

• Move to Higher Ground - If a tsunami warning is issued, evacuate immediately to elevated areas.

• Stay Informed - Alerts are broadcast via sirens, radio, and mobile notifications.

Tsunamis are unpredictable, but understanding their causes and behavior can help us stay safe.