Health condition · plain-language reference

Tsunamis

A tsunami is a series of huge ocean waves created by an underwater disturbance. Causes include earthquakes , landslides, volcanic eruptions , or meteorites--chunks of rock from space that strike the surface of Earth. A tsunami can move hundreds of miles per hour in the open ocean. It can smash into land with waves as high as 100 feet or more and cause devastating floods . Drowning is the most common cause of death related to a tsunami. Although there are no guarantees of safety during a tsunami, you can take actions to protect yourself. You should have a disaster plan . Being prepared can help reduce fear, anxiety, and losses. If you do experience a disaster, it is normal to feel stressed. You may need help in finding ways to cope . Federal Emergency Management Agency

Plain-language summary from MedlinePlus (NIH/NLM) ↗. For informational purposes only — not medical advice.