Was Clearwater Beach Hit By Mini Tsunami
Was Clearwater Beach hit by Mini Tsunami? Meteotsunamis: More common than you think Meteotsunamis are not as rare as you might imagine. They occur due to air-pressure disturbances during fast-moving weather events, like severe thunderstorms or squalls. Unlike seismic tsunamis, they are not triggered by earthquakes.
Clearwater Beach’s meteotsunami: On Wednesday, June 21, Clearwater Beach in Florida experienced a meteotsunami. The Weather Channel’s Ari Salsalari explained that a strong squall line, or line of thunderstorms, indicated the presence of a small tsunami.
Unusual weather conditions: Before the storms arrived, the wind was light from the Southwest. However, as the heavy rain approached, the wind direction suddenly switched to the Northwest, becoming gusty. Surprisingly, the pressure rose as the squalls reached the shoreline.
Water levels jump: The changing wind direction and rising pressure led to an unexpected effect. Around 2 p.m., water levels at Clearwater Beach surged by approximately two and a half feet. This sudden increase was caused by the meteotsunami.
Florida’s encounter with tsunamis: Florida, a state familiar with natural disasters, rarely experiences tsunamis. However, this recent meteotsunami served as a reminder that even in a region prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, the unexpected can occur.
Understanding meteotsunamis: Meteotsunamis are generated by fast-moving weather events, amplifying waves as they approach the shore. The presence of a shallow continental shelf or coastal features can further intensify their impact.
While Clearwater Florida’s meteotsunami was relatively small, it highlights the need to stay informed about weather conditions and be prepared for unexpected events. Mother Nature always has the power to surprise us, even in places where certain disasters seem unlikely. Yahoo
