Tsunami and Seismic Sea Waves

Tsunami are waves generated by a seismic event, such as an earthquake or volcano. The event causes displacement of ocean water that ripples out in all directions. Tsunamis are frequent in the Pacific and Indian Oceans where plate tectonics constantly change the ocean floor. There are key warning signs of an approaching tsunami, and knowing those signs can help you and others find safer ground in an attempt to avoid the destruction that a tsunami can cause.

Essential Questions

• What is a tsunami?
• What causes a tsunami?
• What are warning signs of an approaching tsunami?
• What are effects of a major tsunami?