| Paper | GS Paper 1 |
| Word Limit | 150 words |
| Syllabus Topic | Physical Geography – Important Geophysical Phenomena (Tsunami) |
Model Answer
A tsunami (Japanese for “harbour wave”) is a series of very long sea waves. It forms when a large volume of ocean water is suddenly displaced.
Tsunami: seafloor displacement → fast low waves → tall waves at the coast
How They Form
- Undersea earthquakes: At subduction zones, the seafloor jerks and lifts the water. This is the main cause.
- Undersea landslides and volcanic eruptions, e.g., Hunga Tonga eruption (2022).
- Waves are fast but low at sea. Near the coast they slow and rise sharply (shoaling).
Where They Form
- Mostly along the Pacific Ring of Fire (Japan, Chile, Indonesia).
- Indian Ocean: Sunda Trench. Arabian Sea: Makran coast.
Consequences
- Loss of life: The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami killed over two lakh people, including in Tamil Nadu and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Secondary disasters: The 2011 Japan tsunami caused the Fukushima nuclear accident.
- Salt water ruins farmland and fishing.
Conclusion
Tsunamis cannot be stopped, but deaths can be reduced. Early warnings from INCOIS, Hyderabad, mangrove belts and drills save lives.
Related PYQs
- On December 2004, tsunami brought havoc on 14 countries including India. Discuss the factors responsible for occurrence of Tsunami and its effects on life and economy. In the light of guidelines of NDMA (2010) describe the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events. (2017)
- Discuss the geophysical characteristics of Circum-Pacific Zone. (2020)
- Account for the huge flooding of million cities in India including the smart ones like Hyderabad and Pune. Suggest lasting remedial measures. (2020)
See all: Geography Mains (GS I) Previous Year Questions
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