In November 1929, a massive earthquake off the coast of Newfoundland in Canada triggered a series of undersea avalanches. These avalanches involved a vast amount of sand and mud flowing down a canyon, creating a powerful force that caused a deadly tsunami. This event is the largest known example of an undersea avalanche, but similar avalanches occur regularly below the Earth’s coasts and oceans, shaping the deepest and longest canyons on our planet.
For many years, these undersea avalanches went unnoticed by humans, with only fish and deep-sea creatures witnessing their occurrence. However, recent ruptured gas pipelines and broken communication cables provided evidence of the extreme forces at play beneath the waves. In the past few years, researchers have been able to capture these Earth-carving events in action, thanks to a series of experiments and fortunate circumstances.
With new data, scientists are now gaining a better understanding of submarine avalanches and how they shape the Earth. These avalanches play a crucial role in storing carbon and have important implications for the planet’s climate. Previously believed to be geologically inactive, underwater canyons are now recognized as dynamic environments where significant geological processes take place.
Through continuous research and observation, scientists hope to uncover more about these mysterious and powerful underwater avalanches and their impact on our planet.
+
