Small Tsunami Hits the Jersey Shore, Everyone Shrugs

SMALL TSUNAMI HITS JERSEY SHORE,
EVERYONE SHRUGS

STATEMENT FROM THE NOAA ON NEW JERSEY TSUNAMI

"Tsunami-like waves were observed along the US east coast during the afternoon of June 13, 2013 (day 164). The source is complex and still under review, though the coincidence at several gages with strong atmospheric pressure fluctuations indicate that it is at least partly generated by meteorological causes. The event occurred in close conjunction with a weather system labeled by the National Weather Service as a low-end derecho which propagated from west to east over the New Jersey shore just before the tsunami. It is also possible that the slumping at the continental shelf east of New Jersey played a role. The tsunami was observed at over 30 tide gages and one DART buoy throughout the Northwestern Atlantic Ocean.

This event produced a tsunami that was recorded at tide gages monitored by the West Coast/Alaska Tsunami Warning Center (WCATWC). Many observatories provide data to the centers; such as the NOAA National Ocean Service, the U. of Hawaii Sea Level Center, the Chilean Navy, the Japan Meteorological Agency and the National Tidal Facility in Australia among others. " -Full Statement Here

LAYMAN'S TERMS / REAL WORLD TRANSLATION

'Tsunami-like waves were seen along the US east coast on June 13, 2013. What caused the storm is not fully understood at the moment and still being figured out, we did have several shore lined weather gauges that picked up something. The wave was partly caused by the weather. The wave happened around the same time a straight-lined storm was seen on radar, and warnings were issued for. The shape of the ocean floor may have helped too. We picked it up on over 30 ocean buoys and said nothing until after it happened.

Whatever actually happened plus the weather caused a tsunami, and was recorded at our center. We get info from a bunch of places."

So why weren't any warnings issued?

We will never really know. The reasons why tsunami warnings are issued is highly complex as is it, so perhaps in the end they either 1. Felt warnings weren't necessary, or 2. Didn't know until after the fact. Either way, if there is a small tsunami- you apparently may not get a warning. Below are some helpful tips to help you spot the makings of a tsunami, and also help you survive if you ever have the unfortunate luck of meeting one face to face.

TSUNAMI FACTS

1. A tsunami is not a single wave, in fact it is actually a series of waves. It is also known by the name 'wave train'.

2. A tsunami can be incredibly long, sometimes spanning as much as 60 miles. The waves may also be very spread out, and occur as much as an hour apart from each other. They can also travel incredible distances, traveling thousands of miles at speeds up to 500 MPH before reaching a destination. Once the destination has been reached flooding can spread as far inland as a thousand feet or more. Generally speaking most tsunamis reach only a height of 10 FT, but they can still cause a significant amount of damage.

3. Tsunamis are typically created by earthquakes although landslides, volcanic eruptions, and meteor impacts can also be the culprits of such large waves.

4. The Pacific Ocean is the most active ocean when it comes to tsunamis.

TSUNAMI WARNING SIGNS/
TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE

1. Many people who have experienced a tsunami say that the oncoming wave sounds like that of a freight train.

2. Because earthquakes usually cause tsunamis, they tend to be a great way to have an advanced warning. If you have heard about a larger earthquake that shares an ocean with you, look up whether any warnings have been issued. West Coast & Alaska Tsunami Warning Center , Pacific Tsunami Warning Center

3. Many people who have witnessed a tsunami say that there is frequently a noticeable drop/rise in sea levels. So if the ocean suddenly recedes, head for higher ground.

4. Remember it's not just one wave and there are probably more on the way. Seek higher ground, and if safe continue to seek even higher ground. The first wave isn't always the 'worst' wave.

5. Stay away from all bodies of water that connect to the ocean as well, as they can also become heavily flooded and experience large waves as well.

6. Always try to have some type of emergency kit with you! Throw a small first aid kit, a bottle of water and a couple of food bars in your bag!

7. Some people believe that your pets can tell when something is off in the environment. All different types of animals have been reported as acting 'funny' (I.E. all dogs barking, large flocks of birds fleeing in one direction, etc) before many different natural disasters.

Consider this your warning.

xoxo disaster girl