Imagine a wall of water over 1,000 feet high racing toward shore. This isn’t science fiction—it’s a potential reality. Scientists warn that parts of the U.S. could one day face mega-tsunamis, rare disasters caused not just by earthquakes, but by massive landslides or volcanic collapses.
What Is a Mega-Tsunami?
Unlike typical tsunamis caused by underwater quakes, mega-tsunamis result from enormous chunks of earth—like collapsing volcanoes or glaciers—crashing into the ocean. The resulting waves can tower thousands of feet and travel at jet-like speeds, devastating coastal areas.
High-Risk Regions: Alaska, Hawaii, and the West Coast
- Alaska:
In 1958, an earthquake-triggered landslide in Lituya Bay created a wave over 1,700 feet high—the tallest ever recorded. As glaciers melt and permafrost thaws, similar disasters could recur. - Hawaii:
Volcanic slopes, like those on Mauna Loa and Kilauea, are unstable. Past undersea landslides suggest ancient mega-tsunamis once hit the islands. A sudden collapse could again send massive waves across the Pacific. - West Coast (Cascadia Subduction Zone):
Stretching from Northern California to British Columbia, this fault is overdue for a major quake. A magnitude 9.0 event could trigger a 50–100 foot tsunami with little warning.
Are We Ready?
While hard to predict or defend against, officials are preparing through:
- Monitoring slope movement and seismic activity
- Emergency plans and evacuation routes
- Improved tsunami modeling
But even with preparation, mega-tsunamis can hit with under 30 minutes’ notice.
What You Can Do
If you live near the coast in these regions:
- Know your evacuation route
- Move to higher ground immediately after a warning
- Keep an emergency kit ready
- Stay updated through local alerts and NOAA broadcasts
The Bottom Line
Mega-tsunamis are rare, but real. As climate change reshapes coastlines and geological activity continues, the risk grows. Staying informed and prepared is your best defense against a disaster that could come without warning.