how far can a tsunami go inland

The distance a tsunami can travel inland depends on several factors, including:

1. Wave height and energy: The higher the tsunami wave, the more energy it has to travel inland. Tsunami waves can reach heights of over 100 feet (30 meters), allowing them to penetrate far inland.
2. Coastal topography: The shape and elevation of the coastline can either amplify or reduce the impact of a tsunami. A tsunami can travel farther inland in areas with low-lying coastal plains or river valleys.
3. Land use and vegetation: The presence of buildings, trees, and other obstacles can slow down or block a tsunami, reducing its inland penetration.
4. Water table and soil saturation: If the water table is high or the soil is saturated, a tsunami can travel farther inland by flowing over the water table or through the saturated soil.

Historically, tsunamis have traveled significant distances inland, causing widespread damage and loss of life. Here are some examples:

• 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami: In Banda Aceh, Indonesia, the tsunami wave traveled up to 5 miles (8 kilometers) inland, with water levels reaching as high as 30 feet (9 meters) in some areas.
• 2011 Tohoku earthquake tsunami: In Japan, the tsunami wave traveled up to 6 miles (10 kilometers) inland in some areas, with water levels reaching as high as 30 feet (9 meters).
• 1952 Kamchatka tsunami: In Russia, the tsunami wave traveled up to 15 miles (24 kilometers) inland, with water levels reaching as high as 130 feet (40 meters).

In general, a tsunami can travel anywhere from a few hundred feet to several miles inland, depending on the factors mentioned above. However, the exact distance a tsunami can travel inland is difficult to predict and can vary greatly depending on the specific location and circumstances.

Here are some approximate distances a tsunami can travel inland based on wave height:

• Wave height < 10 feet (3 meters): 100-500 feet (30-150 meters) inland
• Wave height 10-30 feet (3-9 meters): 0.5-2 miles (0.8-3.2 kilometers) inland
• Wave height 30-50 feet (9-15 meters): 2-5 miles (3.2-8 kilometers) inland
• Wave height > 50 feet (15 meters): 5-10 miles (8-16 kilometers) inland or more

Keep in mind that these are rough estimates and the actual distance a tsunami can travel inland can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances.