Meteotsunami

From Glossary of Meteorology

meteotsunami

Long-wave disturbances of the ocean surface driven by atmospheric pressure variations associated with fast-moving weather events such as thunderstorms, squalls, and other storm fronts. Proudman resonance is believed to play a significant role in the formation of meteotsunamis via the coupling of the wave propagation velocity with that of the weather front, after which the wave can become detached from the weather system and impact remote coastlines without an associated weather warning. The storm generates waves that move both offshore and toward the shore and can be amplified by a shallow continental shelf, inlets, bays, and other coastal features.


Term edited 20 May 2021.


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