Not an official forecast
Kirakira, Solomon Islands Tsunami, December 8, 2016
Main Event Page
The Kirakira, Solomon Islands tsunami was generated by a Mw 7.8 earthquake (10.676°S 161.330°E), at 2016-12-08 17:38:46 UTC, 69 km (42.9 mi) WSW of Kirakira, Solomon Islands (according to the USGS). The tsunami was first detected at the Honiara tide gauge, Solomon Islands, where leading wave was recorded about 30 min after the earthquake. Model results shown below were created with the NOAA forecast method using MOST model with the tsunami source inferred from epicenter location and magnitude (Mw 7.8) of the earthquake.
The graphics display preliminary modeling analysis, showing qualitative and quantitative information about the tsunami, including tsunami wave interaction with ocean floor bathymetric features, and neighboring coastlines. Tsunami model amplitude information is shown color-coded according to the scale bar.
- Model amplitudes calculated with the MOST forecast model. Filled colors show maximum computed tsunami amplitude in cm during 24 hours of wave propagation.
Propagation animation on YouTube and .mp4 format
Preliminary model and DART® buoy data/ tide gauge sea level data comparisons
Comparison of the December 8, 2016 Solomon Islands tsunami recorded at tsunameter/DARTs and tide gauges with model results. The DART model time series are obtained from the pre-computed generation/propagation forecast database in real time, after fitting models to tsunami records from the DARTs.
- DART® comparisons with model data
- Composite plot: DARTs 55012, 52406, and 55023
- Tide gauge comparisons with model data
- Composite plot: Honiara, Solomon Islands; Luganville, Vanuatu, Hienghene, New Caledonia; Port Villa, Vanuatu
- Unit sources: 1.2*nv17a+1.8*nv17b
The discrepancies between model results and tide gauge observation are mostly due to our limited knowledge of the earthquake/tsunami source configuration at this point, as well as lack of accurate bathymetry in the vicinity of the tide gauge locations.
Disclaimer: The models on these pages show the results of ongoing research to enhance tsunami science and to improve NOAA operational tsunami forecasts. These products were developed during or shortly after the tsunami event, are intended for research use, and are not an official forecast. They should not be used as the basis of any public or private policy decisions. Please contact NCTR to find if there are more detailed follow-on analysis results.
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When using information from this page, please credit NOAA / PMEL / Center for Tsunami Research
