Resonance in Hawaii waters from the 2006 Kuril Islands Tsunami

The 2006 Kuril Islands Tsunami, while not destructive to coastal properties, resulted in prolonged oscillations in Hawaii waters. This study examines the oscillation patterns and amplification through reconstruction of the tsunami using a nonlinear shallow-water model. After validation with water-level measurements, a Fast Fourier Transform of the computed surface elevation reveals profound oscillation modes at various periods around the Hawaiian Islands. The oscillation at the regional scale consists of standing waves across the island chain and resonance in interconnected channels, embayments, and shallow shelves. Resonance in embayments and standing edge waves dominate the oscillation in coastal waters. The results show strong correlation between bathymetric features and resonance oscillations and identify tsunami hazard areas for planning and emergency management.