Tsunamis and earthquake thrusts

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the relationship between earthquakes and tsunamis, emphasizing that not all large earthquakes (magnitude 7 or greater) generate tsunamis. Key factors influencing tsunami generation include the earthquake's depth, location, and the amount of elastic energy stored in the crust. The recent Chilean earthquake produced a tsunami of approximately 2 meters, while the Banda Aceh earthquake, with a magnitude of 9.1, resulted in significant displacement. The conversation highlights the need for understanding the specific conditions that lead to varying tsunami heights.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of earthquake magnitudes and their classifications
  • Knowledge of seismic wave propagation and crustal displacement
  • Familiarity with tsunami generation mechanisms
  • Awareness of historical earthquake events, particularly the 2004 Banda Aceh earthquake
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the factors influencing tsunami height variations
  • Study the mechanics of crustal displacement during earthquakes
  • Examine case studies of significant tsunamis, including the 2004 Sumatran tsunami
  • Explore resources from the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute (EERI) on recent Indonesian earthquakes
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Seismologists, geologists, disaster management professionals, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of earthquakes and tsunamis.

Astronuc
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I came across an interesting video on three massive earthquakes and the thrusts that caused tsunamis.


Just because an earthquake is large, i.e., mag 7 or mag 8 or greater, and in the ocean doesn't mean it will produce a tsunami. It does depend on the depth and location as well, and how much elastic energy is stored in the mass (or volume) of crust, and the displacement.
 
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Hi Astronuc

interesting video describing why there are variations in tsunami height

from what I have so far read, this latest Chilean event produced a tsunami of only ~ 2 metres ( fortunately!)

Would have been good to have seen what reasons they had considered specifically for the Sumatran event

cheers
Dave
 

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