Tsunami and Seismic Sea Waves

Tsunamis are not tidal waves; instead, they are seismic waves caused by a geological event such as an earthquake, volcano, landslide, or even a glacier top falling into the sea. Plate Tectonics explains how the movement of plate boundaries can cause earthquakes or volcanoes under the sea that result in tsunami. The event displaces water and the energy travels until the waveform surges onto land.

Tsunami can be devastating, and warning signs such as a receding of water, fleeing animals, or even special warning sirens in the Pacific can help people avoid harm from a tsunami. It is always best to find higher ground if you suspect an approaching tsunami.