The word “tsunami” comprises the Japanese words “tsu” (meaning harbour) and “nami” (meaning wave).

A tsunami is a series of enormous waves created by an underwater disturbance usually associated with earthquakes.

These earthquakes occur below or near the ocean.

Volcanic eruptions, submarine landslides, and coastal rock falls can also generate a tsunami.

From the area where the tsunami originates, waves travel outward in all directions.

Once the wave approaches the shore it builds the height.

Note that 72% of tsunamis are generated by earthquakes.

The 2004 tsunami was the deadliest on record. It was caused by a 9.1 magnitude earthquake.

It occurred 18 miles below the ocean floor between the Burma and Indian Plates.

The energy of this earthquake was close to 23,000 Hiroshima-type atmoic bombs.

1,700-foot wave was the largest ever recorded for a tsunami in Alaska on July 9, 1958.