Scientists Warn Of Potential Mega-Tsunami Threat To 3 US States

The findings are part of a new study by Virginia Tech researchers, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.NDTV reported

The research estimates a 15% chance of an earthquake greater than magnitude 8.0 hitting the region within the next 50 years. Such an event could cause coastal land to sink by up to 6.5 feet, significantly amplifying the tsunami's destructive force.

The Cascadia Subduction Zone - a 600-mile-long fault line stretching from northern California to Canada's Vancouver Island - is where the Juan de Fuca Plate is gradually sliding beneath the North American Plate. Scientists say this geological setup has the potential to trigger massive "megathrust" earthquakes capable of displacing vast amounts of water.

According to the study, Northern California, northern Oregon, and southern Washington are among the highest-risk areas. Alaska and Hawaii also face potential threats due to their proximity to active seismic and volcanic regions.