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The Weather Channel

The science behind how tsunamis form

The Weather Channel · Recent
The Weather Channel
The Weather Channel
Recent

Tsunamis are most often caused by large earthquakes, but there can be other sources. If a tsunami warning is issued, move to higher ground immediately.

Breakdown
  • Tsunamis are triggered by disruptions on the seafloor, displacing large volumes of water.
  • Common causes include earthquakes, landslides, volcanic activity, weather events, and meteorite impacts. 32s
  • Tsunamis travel rapidly across ocean basins and can arrive as a series of waves. 50s
  • These waves can cause significant coastal flooding and generate powerful, dangerous currents. 57s
  • Unpredictable currents following tsunamis pose ongoing risks to those near the water. 1m 6s
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