Earthquakes Subductionzone megathrust earthquakes, the most powerful earthquakes in the world, can produce tsunamis through a variety of structures that are missed by simple models including: fault boundary rupture, deformation of overlying plate, splay faults, and landslides during earthquakes. From a hazards viewpoint, it is critical to remember that tsunamis are multiple waves that often arrive on shore for many hours after the initial wave.In this animation we explore different tsunamiproducing mechanisms by examining three famous earthquakes: Japan 2011, Chile 2010, and Alaska 2014.

Written & directed by Robert F. Butler, University of Portland
Animation & graphics by Jenda Johnson, Earth Sciences Animated
Narrated by Katryn Wiese, City College of San Francisco
U.S. Geological Survey consultants:
Peter J. Haeussler, Alaska Science Center
Robert C. Witter, Alaska Science Center;
Reviewed by Susan Beck, seismologist, University of Arizona and George Zandt, seismologist, University of Arizona
Funding from the National Science Foundation