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PRERNA FOR IAS
WHY DO TSUNAMIS HAPPEN?
1. Tsunamis are Very Large Sea Waves
A tsunami is a series of extremely large ocean waves caused by a sudden disturbance in the sea. Unlike normal waves generated by wind, tsunamis carry enormous energy and can travel across entire oceans. When they reach coastal areas, they can cause severe flooding, destruction, and loss of life.
2. Usually Caused by Underwater Earthquakes
Most tsunamis are triggered by powerful earthquakes beneath the ocean floor. When tectonic plates suddenly shift, they displace a large volume of water. This disturbance creates waves that spread outward in all directions. Underwater volcanic eruptions and landslides can also generate tsunamis, though less frequently.
3. Movement of Tectonic Plates
The Earth's crust is divided into large tectonic plates that constantly move. When these plates collide, separate, or slide past each other beneath the ocean, stress builds up. A sudde
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Learn why tsunamis happen: how underwater earthquakes and tectonic plate movements trigger massive ocean waves that cause coastal destruction.
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