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yesterday

SWOT Satellite Validates NOAA Tsunami Models and Enables Operational Integration

Validation of the July 30 Kamchatka tsunami model by SWOT satellite measurements will underpin NOAA’s adoption of satellite data in its operational warning system.

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Overview

  • On July 30 the NASA-CNES SWOT satellite captured the leading edge of a tsunami from an M8.8 Kamchatka earthquake, recording sea surface heights above 1.5 feet about 70 minutes after the quake struck.
  • SWOT’s multidimensional measurements of wave height, shape and travel direction were plotted against a NOAA Center for Tsunami Research forecast and confirmed the model’s accuracy.
  • The NOAA Center for Tsunami Research has initiated integration of SWOT-derived observations into its operational forecasting system to sharpen early-warning capabilities.
  • SWOT’s Ka-band radar interferometer fills observational gaps by mapping open-ocean tsunami characteristics over broad swaths between coastal sensors.
  • The joint mission led by NASA and CNES, with contributions from the Canadian and UK space agencies, demonstrates international cooperation to advance coastal hazard preparedness.