Numerical Modeling of Tectonic and Submarine Landslide-Generated Tsunamis in Whittier, Alaska

Tsunami waves are a threat for many Alaska coastal locations, and community preparedness plays an important role in saving lives and property. The Geophysical Institute of the University of Alaska Fairbanks participates in the National Tsunami Hazard Mitigation Program by evaluating and mapping potential tsunami inundation of selected coastal communities in Alaska. We develop hypothetical tsunami scenarios based on the parameters of potential underwater earthquakes and landslides for a specified coastal community. The modeling results are delivered to the community for local tsunami hazard planning and construction of evacuation maps.