Natural disasters of the Asia Pacific Region: Overview

Tsunami (pron: 'soo-nar-me') is a Japanese word: 'tsu' meaning harbour and 'nami' meaning wave. Tsunami are waves caused by sudden movement of the ocean surface due to earthquakes, landslides on the sea floor, land slumping into the ocean, large volcanic eruptions or meteorite impact in the ocean.

Earthquakes can cause immense damage to buildings and infrastructure, trigger tsunamis, and reshape the Earth's surface with their force.

Each year, seismology bodies record tens of thousands of earthquakes, with some parts of the world at far greater risk of a damaging quake than others.

But how do earthquakes begin — and why are some much more devastating than others?

Engaging resources with video and explanatory diagrams, suitable for Years 7 and 8.
From the ABC Australia
Related key words: Ring of fire | Plate tectonics | Natural disasters | Earthquakes | Volcanoes | Tsunamis

From 1960 to present day track the eruptions and earthquakes around the world in this fascinating timeline map. Click on the features for more information about the events.