Tsunami Formation and Characteristics

What is a Tsunami?

• A tsunami is a series of ocean waves caused by an underwater earthquake or disturbance.
• It can be one huge wave or a series of waves.

Characteristics of Tsunami Waves

• In the deep ocean, tsunami waves move incredibly fast, traveling hundreds of miles per hour.
• On the surface, the waves appear small and insignificant, making them difficult to detect.
• As the waves approach land, they slow down and grow taller, reaching heights of over 21 meters (70 feet).

Effects of a Tsunami

• When a tsunami hits land, it can cause unbelievable destruction, sweeping away people, homes, and trees.
• Survivors face immense challenges, including the loss of homes, neighborhoods, and loved ones.

The 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami

• On December 26, 2004, a strong underwater earthquake in the Indian Ocean triggered a devastating tsunami.
• The tsunami affected over ten countries in Southern Asia and Eastern Africa, causing severe damage and loss of life.
• The lack of a warning system in the Indian Ocean meant that people were unaware of the approaching tsunami and were unprepared.
• The disaster resulted in the loss of over 200,000 lives.

Modern Tsunami Warning Systems

• Today, tsunami warning systems have been set up in high-risk areas to reduce the loss of life.
• Satellites can track tsunami waves with greater accuracy than ever before.
• Radio-operated buoys float in oceans where tsunamis occur, detecting unusual waves and transmitting warnings to land.