Goal

To comprehend the awesome power associated with a tsunami.


Objectives

To investigate how scientists work together to alert as well as educate people about these catastrophic events. You will read the following questions before you begin the research. Then, as you investigate the sites, look for answers to the questions.

Your assignment will be to write an article for a "hypothetical" newspaper so do not just list facts. Instead, you should try to integrate them into the body of your report. You are to educate coastal residents about (1) the dangers of a tsunami, (2) devastating tsunamic events that have occurred in past history, and (3) how to best prepare for and stay safe during a tsunami.

Your writing style should keep the reader interested and engaged. Consider using a picture or diagram to heighten reader interest as well as providing the focus for your article.


Guide Questions

  1. Define the term tsunami and describe some of the characteristics of tsunamis. How do tsunamis differ from other waves?
  2. What are some natural events that can generate a tsunami? Tsunamis are often inaccurately referred to as "tidal waves" or "seismic sea waves." Explain why neither of these terms correctly describes a tsunami.
  3. Roughly 4 out of 5 tsunamis happen in an area called the "Ring of Fire" which roughly encompasses the Pacific Ocean. Why are tsunamis most common in coastal areas bordering the Pacific Ocean?
  4. Create a chart which shows the five most destructive tsunamis in the past 100 years. Include the date that each of tsunami occurred, the locations most affected, what caused it, and the number of people killed because of it.
  5. Two tsunami warning centers are operated by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration in the United States. Describe where they are located, and identify the locations they serve. How do they issue warnings?

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