A tsunami wave is a powerful and large ocean wave typically caused by underwater disturbances such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, landslides, or meteorite impacts. When these events displace a significant amount of water, the energy transfers into waves that can travel across vast ocean distances at high speeds, often reaching over 500 miles per hour in deep water.
As these waves approach shallower coastal areas, they slow down and increase dramatically in height, sometimes forming walls of water. A tsunami usually consists of multiple waves, with the first not always being the largest. Tsunami waves can lead to extensive flooding, strong currents, and massive destruction along coastlines, particularly in low-lying areas. Warning systems and evacuation plans are critical in areas prone to tsunamis to reduce the potential for loss of life and damage.