More on the tsunami in Japan


I note that one report from Japan has given some indication of how high the tsunami reached.

The latest research on the March 11 tsunami that slammed into Ofunato city in Iwate Prefecture, northern Japan shows that it was nearly 30 meters high.

A joint research team from Yokohama National University and University of Tokyo surveying the Ofunato city shoreline made the discovery.

They found fishing equipment scattered on the high cliff of the city’s Ryori Bay and have determined the tsunami reached as high as 29.6 meters [just over 97 feet].

That’s mind-boggling! I mean . . . 97 feet is the height of an average nine- or ten-story building! It’s no wonder so many were killed, or are still missing. You’d have to run awfully fast to get away from that sort of surge! The video clip below illustrates just how fast it came in, and how much damage it did within a very few minutes. This was taken in the port of Kesennuma. Note how quickly even substantial buildings are knocked down and swept away.

May the souls of those who died, rest in peace: and may those who survived receive what comfort may be had from God and humankind amid such a disaster.

Peter

3 comments

  1. Very interesting video. Hats off to the individual that stood their ground to make it. Of the 97 foot surge, I wonder if that factored in any ground subsidence? I understand there are a number of reports where the sea has not receded, indicating the land has sunk and will never be dry again (at least until maybe the next earth event).

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