Tsunami Wave Speed Calculator
Tsunami Wave Speed
Calculate tsunami wave speed, wavelength, and arrival time based on ocean depth and distance using shallow water wave theory.
Formula
Speed = sqrt(g x depth); Wavelength = Speed x Period; Arrival Time = Distance / Speed; Coastal Height = Initial Height x (Ocean Depth / Coastal Depth)^0.25
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast do tsunamis travel?
In deep ocean (4000m depth), tsunamis travel at about 700 km/h, as fast as a jet airplane. In shallow coastal waters, they slow to about 40-50 km/h but grow much taller.
Why do tsunamis grow taller near shore?
As a tsunami enters shallow water, it slows down but its energy is compressed into a smaller volume. The wave height increases proportionally to the fourth root of the depth ratio, a process called shoaling.
Can you feel a tsunami in deep ocean?
No. In deep water, a tsunami may be only 0.5 to 1 meter tall with a wavelength of hundreds of kilometers. Ships at sea would barely notice it passing underneath.
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