Science 8

Tsunami

What’s a Tsunami?
- A tsunami is a series of large ocean waves caused by underwater earthquakes,
volcanic eruptions, or landslides.
- Tsunamis can travel at speeds up to 800 km/h (500 mph) in deep water, but
they slow down as they reach shallow water near the coast, causing them to
grow in height.

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How are Tsunamis Detected?
- Tsunamis are detected using a network of buoys, seafloor sensors, and tide
gauges that monitor changes in sea level and water pressure.

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- Warning systems can alert coastal communities of an incoming tsunami,
giving people time to evacuate to higher ground.
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Fun Facts about Tsunamis:
1. The word "tsunami" comes from the Japanese words "tsu" (harbor) and
"nami" (wave).
2. The tallest tsunami wave ever recorded was in Lituya Bay, Alaska in 1958,
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reaching a height of 524 meters (1,719 feet).

3. Tsunamis can travel across entire oceans and affect coastlines thousands of
kilometers away from the source.

Stay Safe:
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- If you are near the coast and feel an earthquake that lasts for more than 20
seconds, move to higher ground immediately.
- After a tsunami, be cautious of possible aftershocks and flooding, and only
return to coastal areas when authorities deem it safe.