Abstract

Simulating Tsunami Inundation for the Oregon Coast
Track: Ocean, Coastal, and Marine Resources
Authors: Laura Stimely

The Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, in partnership with NOAA, has developed computer simulations for a tsunami hazard assessment along the Oregon coast. The simulations use a range of earthquake scenarios and best available digital elevation data, including recently flown LiDAR. Outputs are ~100-500GB point data files that include wave elevation and velocity, pre- and post-earthquake elevations, and maximum flow depth. Derivative products are maps of evacuation, inundation, maximum flow depth and maximum velocity. Animations and time histories provide information on water levels through time. Oregon, Washington, and California are likely to experience an event similar to the 2004 Indian Ocean or the 2010 Tohoku tsunamis, providing motivation for this endeavor. GIS display of these data are critical for communication with our intended audiences: planners, the public (local citizens and visitors to the coast), and technical users.