Greenland Landslide Triggers Tsunami and 9-Day Earthquake; Scientists Unravel Unique Seismic Mystery

September 13, 2024
Greenland Landslide Triggers Tsunami and 9-Day Earthquake; Scientists Unravel Unique Seismic Mystery
  • The phenomenon was identified as a seiche, a standing wave that persisted unusually long due to the fjord's unique shape.

  • The investigation involved a collaborative effort of over 70 scientists from 15 countries, utilizing various data sources including seismometry and satellite imagery.

  • Researchers highlighted the need for further studies on this phenomenon and its implications for climate change, as it may not be an isolated incident.

  • Svennevig also stressed the importance of developing early warning systems to mitigate risks in extreme environments like this.

  • A massive landslide in Greenland, attributed to climate change, triggered a tsunami in a fjord and an earthquake that lasted for nine days.

  • The tsunami waves, which reached heights of up to 13 feet, were trapped in the fjord, preventing their energy from dissipating.

  • Initially, scientists detected a mysterious seismic signal, referred to as a 'USO' or unidentified seismic object, before linking it to the landslide.

  • Despite the tsunami causing damage to infrastructure and archaeological sites, there were no reported fatalities, largely due to the area being deserted at the time.

  • Lead researcher Kristian Svennevig emphasized the unprecedented nature of the event, stating, 'No one had ever seen anything like this.'

  • The findings may prompt researchers to revisit seismic records for similar events, enhancing the understanding of seiches and their conditions.

  • Antoine Lucas explained that the fjord's closed topography allowed tsunami waves to ricochet, generating seismic waves detected globally.

  • These findings were detailed in a recent report published in the scientific journal Science, emphasizing the need for advanced models to simulate long-duration tsunamis.

Summary based on 39 sources


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