What Happens When a Tsunami Approaches Land?
A tsunami only becomes a hazard when it comes near land. In the open ocean, tsunamis cannot
be felt by ships because the length of the wave would be hundreds of miles long. As the tsunami comes near land
and shallow water, the tsunami waves slow down and become compressed, causing them to grow taller and bigger.
The worst thing that can happen is that a bore
will form. A bore is a wall of turbulent water that can be several meters high and can cause great
destructive power. Behind the bore is a deep and fast-moving flood that can sweep away anything in its path. The
water will drain away sometimes exposing great patches of sea floor. Then the water will rush in again causing additional
damage. This destructive cycle may happen several times before it finally passes. Anyone caught in the path of
a tsunami has little chance of surviving and can easily be crushed flowing debris or they may simply drown. Children
and the elderly are especially at risk since they have less mobility and endurance.
