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A team of scientists has issued a new warning about a possible mega-tsunami that could wipe out entire communities in the United States. According to research published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the regions of Alaska, Hawaii and the continental West Coast face an increasing risk due to their proximity to highly seismic zones.
The most imminent threat comes from the Cascadia Subduction Zone, a geological fault that runs from Vancouver Island in Canada to Cape Mendocino in California. According to Virginia Tech researchers, there is a 15% chance that an 8.0 magnitude or greater earthquake could be triggered in the next 50 years, generating giant waves capable of submerging coastal communities in California, Oregon and Washington.
"The expansion of the coastal floodplain following a Cascadia earthquake had not been quantified before, and the impact on land use could significantly delay recovery
, explained Tina Dura, lead author of the study.
What is a mega tsunami and what can trigger it?
A mega-tsunami is a large wave caused by the sudden displacement of large masses of water. This phenomenon can be triggered by earthquakes, landslides or volcanic eruptions. In the case of Cascadia, the sinking of the coastal land - up to 2 meters in some areas - would multiply the potential damage.
The Cascadia Fault is part of the so-called "Pacific Ring of Fire", one of the most seismically active areas on the planet. Although there has not been a major earthquake in the region since January 26, 1700, experts warn that the next event could be devastating. "Cascadia is a unique place. It is not densely populated, but many communities are right in subsidence zones," said expert Tina Dura.
Alaska, a geologically dangerous terrain for its communities
Meanwhile, in Alaska, landslides are becoming more frequent due to its rugged terrain, constant seismic activity and accelerated melting due to climate change. As glaciers melt, slopes become unstable and rocks can easily come loose, displacing large amounts of water and creating the ideal conditions for a mega tsunami.
Hawaii's volcanic mountain ranges are always under threat
Hawaii also lives under the shadow of this threat. Some 105,000 years ago, a wave more than 300 meters high hit the island of Lanai. Today, that possibility remains latent. Volcanic islands, such as the Big Island, are formed by layers of lava that accumulate and generate fragile slopes. Eruptions or earthquakes can cause huge blocks of rock to fall into the ocean, displacing water and creating colossal tsunamis.
Active volcanoes, such as Mauna Loa and Kilauea, pose a constant risk. The latter has been spewing lava for months, with its latest eruption ending recently on May 16.
The report is clear: the danger is real and could happen at any time. Coastal authorities and communities must prepare for the possibility of a natural disaster that could sur any event recorded in modern history.