Scientists say that the March 11′ earthquake in Japan, literally moved the Japanese seafloor by 79feet, shaking it from east to west. The earthquake was the first time scientists have accurately measured such a outstanding movement of feet underwater. Scientists placed transponders on the seabed, using very careful sonar techniques to record the transponder’s locations, and also used research boats, whose locations were tracked by GPS satellites. A few weeks or so after the earthquake, the scientists returned to record the measurements.
“This is the first time a great subduction earthquake has been directly observed in the submarine part of the fault, which is where most of the action takes place,” noted Oregon State’s Goldfinger. “We normally have to infer slips from onshore GPS.” Goldfinger said.
Do you think this would change their local economy for fishing?
Do you think it would affect a large amount of sea life on their seafloor?