Hello friends, my name is Ollie the Owl! In this book we will learn everything there is to know about tsunamis. This will be a hoot! 

What Is A Tsunami?

A tsunami is a series of waves caused by earthquakes and undersea volcanic eruptions. Initially, tsunami waves are not very large but as they water travels inland, they continue to increase in size.

The Whys and Hows

A tsunami is caused by a large and sudden displacement in the ocean, typically by an earthquake. However, landslides, volcanic activity, weather patterns, and celestial bodies such as asteroids and comets can also lead to their formation.

Where Do Most Tsunamis Occur?

Scientists estimate that nearly three-quarters of all of the world's tsunamis take place in the Pacific Ocean, this is due to these sites being in subduction zones. 

A subduction zone is a collision between two of Earth's tectonic plates in which one plate sinks into the mantle.

Fun Fact! Tectonic plates move on average a few centimeters per year 

Tsunamis' Impact on Cities 

Tsunamis high-level flooding can cause mass destruction to cities and towns. This can include disruption in power, transportation, freshwater availability and supplies, and the movement of large rocks that weigh several tons. Additionally, damage to homes and infrastructure problems typically occur. 

Flood insurance typically cover the cost of these damages 

The Largest Tsunami In The World 

The largest tsunami in known history was in Lituya Bay, Alaska on July 9th, 1958. Waves reached over 1,700 feet.

The cause was an earthquake that measured 9.7 on the Richter scale and was 13 miles southeast of Lituya Bay. More than 10 million dollars were needed to repair the infrastructure. 

How Tsunamis Are Measured 

D- Deep ocean 

A- Assessment

R-Rporting of 

T- Tsunami 

This system consists of seafloor bottom pressure recording which measures changes in water pressure. The data is then relayed to ground stations.

Thankfully due to the DART system, scientists can make educated guesses on when or if a tsunami will arise. There are two distinct types of tsunami warning systems: international and regional. Both of these play a critical role in potentially saving lives and preparing people. However, still, no scientist can fully predict when a tsunami will happen.

Australian scientists are designing a tsunami warning system that is expected to cost 20 million U.S dollars!