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The lateral wave at a depth discontinuity in the ocean and its relevance to tsunami propagation

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  20 April 2006

D. R. King
Affiliation:
Department of Oceanography, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
P. H. LeBlond
Affiliation:
Department of Oceanography, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada

Abstract

The theory of lateral waves is reviewed in the context of long surface gravity waves and is used to interpret the results of experiments performed in a wave tank to simulate tsunami propagation following a disturbance on a continental shelf. It is suggested that since the lateral wave precedes the direct wave at coastal stations its detection might prove useful in tsunami warning systems.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
© 1982 Cambridge University Press

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