What are tsunamis or tidal waves?
Tsunamis (proncounced soo-nami) or tidal waves are massive sudden, unexpected and very large ocean waves. They are caused by a sudden displacement (movement of water). This could be due to an undersea earthquake, an undersea landslide or meteor/asteroid strike. Tidal wave or tsunami? There is sometimes a bit of an argument about what is the correct term to use. Scientists don’t like the expression tidal wave because tides are caused by the moon. Although it is understandable to use the term since historically it looks like the tide suddenly rushes away and crashes back down as a large wave. The word tsunami comes from the Japanese word meaning “harbour wave” but does not have much to do with harbours. Although again historically people in harbour areas were/are most at risk of these devasting waves. The German word for tidal wave is Flutwelle that literally means flood wave which is perhaps a good description. The French word for tsunami is raz de maree, which means the power, cutting
