Analysis of Shallow Water Equation Based on Tsunami Simulations: Evidence from the Pacific Ocean

Abstract

Tsunamis, particularly prevalent in the Pacific Ocean's "Ring of Fire" region, present both a scientific intrigue and a societal concern due to their potential for devastation. Central to understanding and predicting these phenomena is the Shallow Water Equations (SWEs), which describe the horizontal motion of water waves. This study delves into the specific behaviors of tsunamis in the Pacific coast, utilizing comprehensive oceanographic and seismological data from the Pacific Oceanographic Institute (POI) spanning two decades. Through the lens of the SWEs, the impacts of bathymetric features and coastal topography on tsunamis are analyzed from the perspective of propagation, wave period, and frequency. Findings highlighted the significant role of solitons or solitary waves and the destructive force they exert, especially in shallow waters. While the SWE-based models have greatly assisted in developing real-time warning systems, reducing fatalities and damages, they also present certain limitations, e.g., assuming a flat seafloor and neglecting factors such as Earth's rotation, vertical fluid motion, and real-world marine conditions like turbulence. The study underscores the need for continuous refinement of these models, emphasizing the integration of observational data with advanced computational methods to enhance tsunami prediction and preparedness.