Landslide
A tsunami is a series of ocean waves that appear when the shape of the bottom of the ocean moves. Large earthquakes located near the ocean floor or landslides most commonly cause these waves.
Scientists use seismometers to warn them of large earthquakes as soon as they occur. They can then predict if a tsunami will hit, by using information on when and where the earthquake occurred.
 Maximum Wave Heights for a tsunami Generated in Kona
Hurrican Iniki

Hurricanes are the most destructive storms on Earth. Although few hurricanes have hit the Hawaiian Islands, several storms have been very destructive. Hurricane Iniki, which struck Kaua‘i in 1992, was very powerful and destructive storm. It caused over $2.3 billion in property damage.

Meet the Scientists


Gerard Fryer studies tsunamis and the earthquakes and landslides that cause them. To hear more about tsunamis, click here.


Chip McCreery knows all about tsunamis in the Pacific! He's the director of the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center. Hear why tsunami warnings are important here.

Steve Businger is fascinated by large storms, like hurricanes. What other things do meteorologists study? Find out here.
 


Tom Schroeder studies many aspects of weather and climate. Why study storms and tornadoes? Find out Tom's reason here.
Life in the Universe | Outer Space | Mauna Kea |Kilauea | Volcanoes | Oceans & Atmospheres | Reefs & Beaches | Loihi & Ocean Floor

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