In May 2025, scientists have issued an urgent warning about the potential for a catastrophic “mega-tsunami” that could impact parts of the United States. This alert stems from concerns over the stability of the Cumbre Vieja volcano on La Palma in the Canary Islands. Researchers suggest that a significant landslide from this volcano could trigger a massive tsunami, posing a threat to the eastern seaboard of North America.
Understanding Mega-Tsunamis
Unlike typical tsunamis, which are generally caused by underwater earthquakes, mega-tsunamis result from massive landslides or volcanic eruptions that displace large volumes of water. These events can produce waves hundreds of feet high, traveling across oceans at incredible speeds. The 1958 Lituya Bay event in Alaska is a historical example, where a landslide-induced wave reached a height of 1,720 feet, the tallest ever recorded.
The Cumbre Vieja volcano has been the focus of studies due to its potential to generate a mega-tsunami. Some models suggest that a significant collapse of its western flank could send a massive volume of rock into the Atlantic Ocean, generating waves that might reach the eastern coast of the U.S. within hours. These waves could inundate coastal areas, causing widespread destruction.
Potential Impact on the U.S.
If such a mega-tsunami were to occur, cities along the U.S. East Coast, including New York, Miami, and Boston, could face devastating consequences. The waves could travel up to 500 miles per hour, reaching the coast in approximately six to eight hours. The inundation could extend several miles inland, depending on the topography, leading to significant loss of life and property.
While the potential for such an event exists, many scientists emphasize that the likelihood of a catastrophic collapse of Cumbre Vieja in the near future is low. The volcano has been monitored for decades, and no significant movement suggesting an imminent landslide has been detected. Nonetheless, the scenario underscores the importance of preparedness and monitoring.
The U.S. has systems in place to monitor seismic and volcanic activity, including the U.S. Tsunami Warning Centers. These centers provide real-time alerts and information to help mitigate the impact of potential tsunamis. Public education and evacuation planning are also critical components of preparedness strategies.
While the prospect of a 1,000-foot mega-tsunami impacting the U.S. East Coast is a dramatic scenario, current scientific assessments suggest it is an unlikely event in the near term. However, the potential consequences of such a disaster highlight the need for continued monitoring, research, and public preparedness to ensure communities are equipped to respond to a range of natural hazards.
