"There is a common misconception that tsunamis behave like wind-driven waves or swells (with air behind them, as in this celebrated 19th century woodcut by Hokusai - see below). In fact, a tsunami is better understood as a new and suddenly higher sea level, which manifests as a shelf or shelves of water. The leading edge of a tsunami superficially resembles a breaking wave but behaves differently: the rapid rise in sea level, combined with the weight and pressure of the ocean behind it, has far greater force."
Hmm. That makes a little more sense. What with tsunamis, rogue waves, and these scary critters Ben informed us about, I'm starting to think this journey to Australia might not be the best idea....
*"The Great Wave," by Katsushika Hokusai. Incidentally, he's one of my favorite artists. If you click on his name above, it should take you to a google image search and show lots of his works.
3 comments:
I recently read about the rogue waves, too. Interesting stuff - thanks for the clarification. Kind of makes me rethink my desire to go on a cruise, too.
Incidentally, I just realized through various links that you use "Crikey" from the Crocodile Hunter? And that made me think of when Doug went to Australia and he actually went to a show where the guy dangled his own infant in front of a large crocodile. He's just that insane. Thought I'd share.
Nice pic, reminds me of poker and wine tasting round at yours...it also makes me miss Elizabeth Shue's (sp?) boobs a whole lot.
The best description I ever read of a tsunami was that the ocean basically turns into a river. Just thought I'd throw that out there.
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