Hazards
Hazards
We make detailed seafloor maps of offshore geology to identify faults and underwater landslides that may cause tsunamis. We develop computer models of shoreline change and sea-level rise. Powerful storms can destroy critical infrastructure and coral reefs that provide protective coastal barriers. Our science helps vulnerable coastal communities develop strategies to become more resilient.
Filter Total Items: 60
Preliminary Simulations of Recent Tsunamis
A collection of computer simulations of significant tsunamis.
USGS Scientists in Samoa and American Samoa Studying Impacts of Tsunami in 2009
On September 29, 2009, an M 8.1 earthquake in the Samoa Islands region of the South Pacific Ocean caused a tsunami that resulted in 100's of lost lives. A rapid-response team of USGS scientists traveled to the Samoa Islands in October-November 2009 to collect time-sensitive data that would have been quickly degraded or destroyed by recovery activity and natural processes.
Preliminary Analysis of the 2009 Samoa Tsunami
The tsunami that was triggered by a magnitude 8.1 earthquake on September 29, 2009, caused significant damage and loss of life on Samoa, American Samoa, and Tonga. In the hopes that disasters such as this can be minimized in the future, we attempt to understand the mechanism and impact of this tsunami. The information presented here is focused on geologic aspects of the disaster.
Does Pleasure Point Need A Seawall?
Information about the USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center's study of Pleasure Point in Santa Cruz, California, from 2005-2007.
Should Englebright Dam Be Removed?
Information about the USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center's study from 2001-2004, on Englebright Dam and the science behind its removal.
Tsunami Hazards in the Santa Barbara Channel
Information about the USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center's study of tsunami hazards in the Santa Barbara Channel from 1993-2003.
Big Sur Coastal Landslides
Information about USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center studies on coastal landslides in the Big Sur area
Preliminary Analysis of Sedimentary Deposits from the June 23, 2001 Peru Tsunami
A Cooperative Study by the USGS, la Dirección de Hidrografía y Navegación de la Marina de Guerra del Perú, Instituto Geofísico del Perú, Instituto Geologico, Minero y Metalurgico, University of California, Santa Cruz, University of Southern California, and University of San Agustin. September 4 - September 18, 2001
Mapping Shipping Hazards in San Francisco Bay
Information about the 1997-1998 study by USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center , to map the floor of San Francisco Bay in order to reveal the bay's shipping hazards.
Descriptive Model of the July 17, 1998 Papua New Guinea Tsunami
The tsunami that struck New Guinea on July 17, 1998 was the most devastating tsunami since the 1976 Moro Gulf, Philippines, tsunami and may surpass that event (Lockridge and Smith, 1984; Satake and Imamura, 1995). The high reported runups and the tremendous loss of life are of great concern to all, including the international scientific community. Scientists closely examined this event in hopes of...
Preliminary Analysis of Sedimentary Deposits from the July 17, 1998 Papua New Guinea Tsunami
Preliminary analysis of sedimentary deposits from the tsunami caused by the July 17, 1998 Papua New Guinea earthquake.
Giant Hawaiian Underwater Landslides
Information about the USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center's studies of giant underwater landslides in 1986 and 1988.