Tsunami Generation from the 2004 M=9.2 Sumatra-Andaman Earthquake

Animation: Simulated view of the tsunami wavefield looking southeast

This animation shows the evolution of tsunami waves caused by the December 26, 2004 earthquake. A detailed depiction of the different tsunami waves (phases) is shown in this animation. Phases d1, d2, and d3 are direct arrivals from source regions located from south to north along the Sumatra-Andaman subduction zone. The phases beginning with the letter r originate as reflections from various coastlines and bathymetric features. The animation ends two hours after the earthquake when the Jason-1 satellite passes through the Bay of Bengal. The Jason-1 trackline is colored pink where the model amplitudes are positive and colored blue where they are negative.

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Please note that some U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) information accessed through this page may be preliminary in nature and presented prior to final review and approval by the Director of the USGS. This information is provided with the understanding that it is not guaranteed to be correct or complete and conclusions drawn from such information are the sole responsibility of the user.