Understanding tsunamis

Cards (5)

  • What are tsunamis?
    Secondary hazards from an underwater earthquake, producing powerful waves
  • How are tsunamis formed?
    When there is an underwater earthquake along a subduction zone, the energy released lifts the sea floor, displacing the water above and forming tsunami waves
  • What are the main impacts of tsunamis?
    Since they travel several miles inland, they destroy land and infrastructure, wash away the soil, and change the landscape
  • How can tsunamis be predicted?
    By using the DART system, which uses sensors to monitor changes in sea level and pressure
  • How is the DART system used to warn people of tsunamis as they happen?
    When tsunami waves are detected, the sensor sends the mesage to tsunami warning stations via a satellite, allowing people to be warned about the tsunami