Tsunami Flashcards
how are tsunamis created
Most tsunamis are created via large underwater earthquakes along the subduction zone
what does energy released by earthquakes cause to the seafloor
Energy released during the e/q causes the seafloor to uplift - displacing a water column above which forms tsunami waves which are normally around 3 m tall, however some can get up to 30 m tall.
how fast do tsunamis travel
up to 500mph
how are tsunamis destructive to the landscape
Large tsunamis can travel inland for several miles - sweeping away buildings, trees, bridges and people
They also wash away the soil- undermining the foundations of buildings, bridges and roads, uprooting trees and destroying farmland
They can completely destroy/change landscapes for example small islands are totally destroyed
impacts of tsunamis on people
Most tsunami-related deaths are due to drowning and collapsing debris crushing them, there is also inland flooding which brings sewage, contaminating water, food etc leading to disease such as cholera.
