Multi-proxy evidence for trans-Pacific tsunamis in the Hawai%26apos;ian Islands

作者：Chague Goff C^*; Goff J; Nichol S L; Dudley W; Zawadzki A; Bennett J W; Mooney S D; Fierro D; Heijnis H; Dominey Howes D; Courtney C

来源：Marine Geology, 2012, 299: 77-89.

DOI：10.1016/j.margeo.2011.12.010

• tsunami deposits
• Hawai%26apos
• i
• proxies
• 1946 Aleutian tsunami
• 1957 Aleutian tsunami

The origin of two sand layers buried in Pololu wetland, on the northeast coast of the island of Hawaii, was investigated using a multi-proxy approach, including radiometric dating, sedimentology, geochemistry, micropalaeontology, palynology and historical records. Based on Pb-210, Cs-137 and pollen data, the lower sand unit extending 250 to 350 m inland is attributed to the 1946 Aleutian tsunami, while the upper sand unit was laid down by the 1957 Aleutian tsunami. Chronological information does not appear to support any link between these deposits and historical storm events. Furthermore, sedimentological, geochemical, diatom and pollen results suggest deposition of marine and near-beach sediments under high energy conditions typically associated with tsunami inundation. This work presents the first conclusive sedimentary evidence for distantly-generated tsunamis on the Hawaiian Islands, opening the way for more comprehensive historical and palaeotsunami studies. Indeed, a brief review of archaeological data suggests that the Hawaiian coast may have experienced similar large magnitude events in the past, from both local and distant sources.

• 出版日期2012-3-1