Published , Modified Abstract on Edge Waves, Continental Shelf Fueled the 2021 Acapulco Bay Tsunami Original source
Edge Waves, Continental Shelf Fueled the 2021 Acapulco Bay Tsunami
On September 7, 2021, a tsunami hit the Mexican resort city of Acapulco, causing widespread damage and leaving at least one person dead. The cause of the tsunami was initially unclear, but a new study has shed light on the phenomenon. According to researchers, edge waves and the continental shelf played a significant role in fueling the tsunami.
What are Edge Waves?
Edge waves are a type of ocean wave that travels along the coast parallel to the shoreline. They are caused by the interaction between ocean currents and the coastline. Edge waves can be generated by a variety of factors, including wind, tides, and changes in water temperature.
The Role of the Continental Shelf
The continental shelf is the area of seabed that surrounds continents and is relatively shallow compared to the open ocean. In some cases, the continental shelf can extend for hundreds of miles from shore. The shape and depth of the continental shelf can have a significant impact on ocean currents and wave patterns.
In the case of the Acapulco Bay tsunami, researchers believe that edge waves were amplified by the shape of the continental shelf. As edge waves approached the coast, they were funneled into a narrow channel between two underwater ridges. This caused them to increase in height and energy, eventually leading to the formation of a tsunami.
The Study
The study was conducted by researchers from Mexico's National Autonomous University (UNAM) and published in the journal Pure and Applied Geophysics. The team used computer simulations to model how edge waves would behave in different scenarios.
The simulations showed that edge waves could be amplified by up to 10 times their original height when they interacted with underwater ridges. This effect was particularly pronounced when there was a large difference in depth between the ridge and surrounding seabed.
Implications for Tsunami Preparedness
The findings of the study have important implications for tsunami preparedness in coastal areas. While tsunamis are relatively rare events, they can have devastating consequences when they do occur. Understanding the factors that contribute to the formation of tsunamis can help authorities better prepare for and respond to these events.
In the case of the Acapulco Bay tsunami, early warning systems were not activated because the earthquake that triggered the tsunami was not large enough to trigger a warning. However, if authorities had been aware of the potential for edge waves and the role of the continental shelf in amplifying them, they may have been able to issue a warning based on other indicators.
Conclusion
The 2021 Acapulco Bay tsunami was a tragic event that highlighted the importance of understanding the complex interactions between ocean currents, wave patterns, and coastal topography. The new study by UNAM researchers sheds light on one aspect of this phenomenon – the role of edge waves and the continental shelf in fueling tsunamis.
While there is still much to learn about tsunamis and their causes, this study represents an important step forward in our understanding of these events. By continuing to study and monitor ocean currents and wave patterns, we can better prepare for and respond to future tsunamis.
FAQs
Q: How common are tsunamis?
A: Tsunamis are relatively rare events, but they can have devastating consequences when they do occur.
Q: What causes tsunamis?
A: Tsunamis can be caused by a variety of factors, including earthquakes, landslides, and volcanic eruptions.
Q: Can tsunamis be predicted?
A: While it is difficult to predict exactly when and where a tsunami will occur, scientists can monitor ocean currents and wave patterns to identify areas that are at higher risk.
Q: What can people do to prepare for a tsunami?
A: People living in coastal areas should be aware of the potential for tsunamis and have a plan in place for how to respond in the event of an emergency.
Q: How can early warning systems help prevent damage from tsunamis?
A: Early warning systems can give people in coastal areas time to evacuate before a tsunami hits, potentially reducing the damage and loss of life.
This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.