Meteotsunami detection and tracking: Developing a solution based on assessment of real-time measurements

Introduction

Meteorological tsunamis (meteotsunamis) are long ocean waves (periods of: 1 < T < ~120 min) that have the same periods, wavelengths, and amplitudes as seismic tsunamis, but are generated by processes in the atmosphere. Meteorological tsunamis occur all over the world. Although they are never nearly as destructive as seismic tsunamis, meteotsunamis occasionally cause destruction and loss of life.

Background

After several devastating events, firstly national authorities in several countries at risk, and then the global authorities (such as UNESCO), have begun to look for ways to incorporate meteotsunamis into their forecasting and warning systems and/or to develop meteotsunami warning procedures. Although important steps have already been taken, forecasting meteotsunamis and issuing timely warnings is still a challenge.

Project Overview

As part of the MeD-Track project, we plan to develop a meteotsunami detection and tracking system. The proposed system will consist of:

1. Custom-built atmospheric stations that measure atmospheric pressure with high precision and resolution.
2. An optimal network organization of these stations.
3. An algorithm for detection and tracking of meteotsunamis in real-time.

Expected Outcomes

If effective, the developed solution could lead to an improvement in meteotsunami forecasts and warnings, helping vulnerable local communities to protect their property and well-being.