Developing a Warning System for Inbound Tsunamis from the Cascadia Subduction Zone

Abstract

Real-time tsunami warning in the nearfield is considerably more difficult than producing warnings for distant events. Although in some cases strong shaking will provide the only warning, there are several situations in which better early tsunami warning systems could be critical. We discuss some of the issues that arise, particularly the difficulty of interpreting ocean bottom pressure recordings in the near source region, and make some recommendations for future research and first steps toward a better warning system for the Pacific Northwest.