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Tsunamis
A tsunami is a series of waves, usually triggered by an earthquake or volcano eruption. In the open sea the waves can pick up speeds as fast as 450 mph. As they approach the coast they grow as high as 100 feet before blasting the shore.
Hawaii is hit with an average of one tsunami a year, but only one in seven of those cause damage. California, Oregon and Washington experience a damaging tsunami about every 18 years. Alaska is at an even greater risk. In 1964, the Great Alaskan Earthquake (the biggest ever recorded in North America) triggered a tsunami that hit parts of the California, Oregon and Washington coasts.
If an earthquake occurs, residents of coastal areas should be on alert. Stay tuned to the radio, and if a tsunami warning is issued, stay away from the beach and move inland to higher ground immediately. Note that there may be more than one wave, and the second one may be bigger than the first. It is important to always have a Classroom Emergency Plan prepared.
Download Tsunami/Flood Checklist (pdf)
- www.ready.gov: Tsunami
- FEMA for Kids: Tsunami
- Tsunami FAQ / NOAA
- NOAA Tsunami
- NOAA Tsunami Resources for Kids
- NOAA Tsunami Resources for Teachers
- Pacific Tsunami Museum / Student Guide
States affected:
California
Hawaii