Major earthquakes present another major threat to coastal communities.
Immediately following a big quake, there is always a chance of a huge wave called a tsunami. These waves can attain heights of more than 50 feet and travel vast distances are speeds of up to 400 miles per hour. When such waves make landfall, they can cause massive destruction and loss of life. A major earthquake is a natural tsunami warning. A tsunami is not a single wave, but often a series of big waves.