Tsunami Flashcards
How do Tsunamis Form?
The earthquake permanently jolts the fault up or down by several metres. The movement of the fault displaces the volume of water above it, and large waves begin moving through the ocean.
Primary Effects of the Japan Tsunami
> Less than 1 hour after the earthquake, 7-10m waves hit the coastline of northeast Japan and travelled as far as 10km inland
Towns were completely submerged with dirty water and debris
18,000 died
Secondary Effects of the Japan Tsunami
> Shipping was disrupted due to closure and destruction of ports
Agriculture in the tohuku region was devastated
Nuclear power plants were damaged
the damage cost was $300 billion
Immediate Responses of Japan’s Tsunami
> The army, police and rescuers were there within 1 hour helping with search
134 countries offered assistance (money or help with search/clean up)
Residents in Tokyo received a minute of warning before the earthquake due to early warning system
High speed trains and factory assembly lines were stopped
Long Term Responses of Japan’s Tsunami
> In November 2011, 96% of the electricity supply had been restored
In November 2011, 100% of expressway, the Shinkansen and airport facilities had been restored
By 29th March Sendai Airport was re-usable
Causes of a Tsunami
Earthquakes that happen beneath the sea generate tsunamis.
