Meteotsunamis

Meteotsunamis are rare but potentially destructive ocean waves that are caused by meteorological events, rather than seismic activity which generates typical tsunamis. These events can include rapidly moving storm systems, strong winds, or sudden atmospheric pressure changes. Unlike seismic tsunamis which often have a single, powerful wave, meteotsunamis can manifest as a series of waves, sometimes appearing as a rapid rise and fall of sea level.

The mechanism behind their formation involves the transfer of energy from the atmosphere to the ocean. For example, a fast-moving storm system can create a pressure disturbance that travels across the water's surface. If the speed of this disturbance matches the speed of shallow-water waves (called the Proudman resonance or the Marangoni effect), it can amplify the wave energy, leading to significant wave heights and rapid inundation.

Meteotsunamis have been observed worldwide, with notable occurrences in the Great Lakes, the Mediterranean Sea, and along the coasts of Japan. Their destructive potential lies in their suddenness and the force they can exert on coastal areas, causing damage to infrastructure and posing a threat to life. Predicting meteotsunamis is challenging due to the complex interplay of atmospheric and oceanic conditions. However, ongoing research aims to improve forecasting capabilities by monitoring weather patterns and oceanographic data.