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What is a megathrust earthquake?
EarthquakesPlate tectonics
Quick Answer
A megathrust earthquake is a very large quake that occurs on a subduction-zone fault where one tectonic plate dives beneath another.
The Full Story
Megathrust earthquakes happen along the long, shallow interface where an oceanic plate is forced under another plate. Because the fault area can be enormous, these earthquakes can release tremendous energy and generate tsunamis. The 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and the 2011 TΕhoku earthquake in Japan were both megathrust events. They are among the largest earthquakes on Earth and are a major focus of hazard planning.
Key Facts
1.Megathrust quakes occur at subduction zones
2.They are a major source of tsunamis
3.The 2011 TΕhoku earthquake had magnitude 9.0
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"The giant fault that can shake entire oceans"