Do earthquakes occur only on land?
Earthquakes also happen under the ocean. Sometimes, large earthquakes that begin on the ocean floor can create giant, destructive waves referred to as tsunamis. These waves pass at great speeds (up to about 800 kilometres or 500 miles per hour) and can travel thousands of kilometres across the ocean. In deep water, the waves are not very high. They gain strength and height as they strategy the shore. Tsunamis can be about 30 metres (98 feet) high. These large waves wreck on to the shore with a tremendous deal of force, bringing down trees and massive buildings.
