Tsunamis are huge towering waves that cause severe flooding and destruction. They are caused by underwater earthquakes at tectonic plate boundaries. Most of the tsunamis that happen are on the Ring of Fire, an active area where tectonic plates shift and cause earthquakes and volcanoes. The tsunami's waves can travel faster than a jet plane and barely lose its evergy because of its long wavelength. The waves start off small, no larger than a foot but as they reach the shallower ocean floor, they become bigger and more powerful.
Today, there are many tsunami warning centers that help predict and warn people nearby of an oncoming tsunami. There are also many safety drills that the government of many countries (Asian countries or countries along the Ring of Fire) practice in case of a tsunami. Central Middle School's Lego Robotics Club also has done intensive research and came up with solutions for tsunamis. They designed a model underground house that will protect over 50,000 people from the waves. Nothing will be wasted: the energy of incoming waves will be harnessed, heating up the home and lights, the water itself will be filtered and used for fresh water source and for watering the emergency garden. People can live there over a week and have enough food and resources to survive a tsunami. Many people including Google and World Vision helped with the aftermath of a tsunami. Google helped find missing friends and family and helped them keep in touch. World Vision staff delivered supplies like water, blankets, and food to victims. Other companies that help include: American Red Cross, Salvation Army, AmeriCares, Save the Children, UNICEF, and so many more companies are helping.
