Want to learn more about the basics of subduction zone science? Browse the collection of USGS education pages below focused on subduction zones, and also check out the great education pages from non-USGS sources.
Earthquake Education
A collection of items to learn all about earthquake science.
Landslide Education
A collection of items to learn all about landslide science.
Life of a Tsunami
Life of a Tsunami
Could It Happen Here?
The Question: Soon after the devastating tsunamis in the Indian Ocean on December 26, 2004 and in Japan on March 11, 2011, many people have asked, "Could such a tsunami happen in the United States?"
Local Tsunamis in the Pacific Northwest
In the past century, several damaging tsunamis have struck the Pacific Northwest coast (Northern California, Oregon, and Washington). All of these tsunamis were distant tsunamis generated from earthquakes located far across the Pacific basin and are distinguished from tsunamis generated by earthquakes near the coast—termed local tsunamis.
Could It Happen Here?
Soon after the devastating tsunamis in the Indian Ocean on December 26, 2004 and in Japan on March 11, 2011, many people have asked, "Could such a tsunami happen in the United States?"
Understanding plate motions
Scientists now have a fairly good understanding of how the plates move and how such movements relate to earthquake activity. Most movement occurs along narrow zones between plates where the results of plate-tectonic forces are most evident.