Document Details
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Title:
Tsunami Problem
Author(s):
Document Type:
REPORT
Publication Date:
1955 Dec 08
Declassification Date:
1996 Jan 18
Accession Number:
OOL20100115
Document Number(s):
UCRL-ID--127830
Originating Research Org.:
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
OpenNet Entry Date:
2019 Aug 20
OpenNet Modified Date:
2023 Oct 17
Description/Abstract:
Various sources of information have been explored to determine the probability of waves of tsunami proportions being generated by the ZUNI detonation. Tsunamis are generally characterized by wavelengths of about 50 to 100 miles, and amplitudes of a few feet or less. Considerable damage in the Hawaiian Islands was caused by the tsunami of April 1, 1946, having "a wave length of nearly 100 miles, and a height in the open sea which is thought to have been 2 feet or less". Regarding the ZUNI shot, a question arises whether direct coupling to deep water caused by the breakthrough on the ocean side may result in effects of this type. All available evidence indicates that no waves of any significant height will be produced in the neighborhood of the test area having wavelengths greater than perhaps 2 to 3 miles. It is expected that these waves will propagate in a dispersive train, with the maximum height governed by the factor HR remaining constant, and the predominant wavelengths at all distances not exceeding the above limit of 2 to 3 miles. Therefore the breakthrough phenomenon is not considered to be of serious consequence for tsunami production.