What is a Tsunami?

A tsunami is a large, often destructive, sea wave produced by an underwater earthquake or volcanic eruption.

It is sometimes erroneously called a tidal wave and mistakenly associated with storm surges.

Tsunamis can occur when the earthquake is shallow-seated and strong enough to displace parts of the seabed and disturb the mass of water over it.

Natural signs of an approaching tsunami:

• a felt earthquake;
• sudden sea water retreat or rise;
• rumbling sound of approaching waves.