In Japanese, tsunami means "harbor wave." Tsunamis are ocean waves triggered by an earthquake, volcano, or other movement of the ocean floor. Potentially imperceptible in deep water, a tsunami increases in height as it encounters the shallow waters of shore, often leading to extensive wreckage and loss.
coastal flooding
Noun
process where a storm or tsunami causes the sea to rush inland, as a storm surge. Also called estuarine flooding.
earthquake
Noun
the sudden shaking of Earth's crust caused by the release of energy along fault lines or from volcanic activity.
seismic sea wave
Noun
ocean wave triggered by an earthquake, volcano, or other movement of the ocean floor. Also called a tsunami.
tectonic activity
Noun
movement of tectonic plates resulting in geologic activity such as volcanic eruptions and earthquakes.
tsunami
Noun
ocean waves triggered by an earthquake, volcano, or other movement of the ocean floor.
Articles & Profiles
Images
- National Geographic News: Japan Tsunami, Then and Now
- National Geographic News: Where Will Next Mega-Tsunami Hit?
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