Mag 3.4 Earthquake under Lake Ontario, 15 km SW of Henderson, New York

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a recent magnitude 3.4 earthquake that occurred under Lake Ontario, near Henderson, New York. Participants explore the implications of this seismic event, including potential effects on the lake and geological characteristics of the area.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the unusual location of the earthquake and provides details about its magnitude, depth, and coordinates.
  • Another participant raises the question of whether a tsunami could occur in a Great Lake as a result of the earthquake.
  • A different participant argues against the possibility of a tsunami, suggesting that any waves generated would likely be classified as a seiche, which is a standing wave phenomenon in enclosed bodies of water.
  • There is mention of the term "meteotsunami" in relation to meteorologically driven waves or seiches, indicating a broader context for wave phenomena in the Great Lakes.
  • One participant discusses the geological context, mentioning the Frontenac Arch and the potential for residual stress relief in the area.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the potential for tsunami-like effects from the earthquake, with some suggesting seiches instead. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific geological implications and classifications of wave phenomena.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference various sources to support their claims, but there are no explicit agreements on the geological processes involved or the nature of the waves that may result from the earthquake.

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Wow.
A possibility of a tsunami in a great lake?
 
BillTre said:
A possibility of a tsunami in a great lake?
I don't believe so. The magnitude of the earthquake 3.4 was rather low to moderate, even though it appears to be shallow. I think any wave or waves would be referred to as a seiche. A seiche (pronounced "saysh") is a series of standing waves in a fully, or partially-enclosed body of water caused by earthquakes or landslides.
https://kingcounty.gov/en/dept/exec...vention/emergency-preparedness/tsunami-seiche
https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/seiche.html

I was looking for further information on the type of fault. I don't believe subduction was involved.
https://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/eventpage/us6000n92y/region-info

We now see the term meteotsunami used in relation to meteorological driven waves or seishes.
https://www.ijc.org/en/they-come-waves-seiches-and-type-tsunami-affect-great-lakes
 
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The epicentre of the quake is just west of the Frontenac Arch, a basement structural rise. Might still be some residual stress relief occurring there.
 
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