Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
The Tohoku earthquake and tsunami refers to a catastrophic event that occurred on March 11, 2011, off the coast of Japan. It was a powerful undersea earthquake that triggered a massive tsunami, resulting in widespread destruction and loss of life.
Subduction Zone: A subduction zone is an area where one tectonic plate is forced beneath another plate. In the case of the Tohoku earthquake, it occurred due to the Pacific Plate being subducted beneath the Eurasian Plate.
Seismic Waves: Seismic waves are vibrations that travel through the Earth's crust during an earthquake. These waves can cause shaking and damage to structures.
Tsunami Warning System: A tsunami warning system is a network of sensors and buoys designed to detect earthquakes and tsunamis early. It helps provide timely warnings to coastal communities at risk.