Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ancient Tsunami Fossils Reveal Secrets of Coastal Disasters

7/10/2025

27 2

Summary

Story summary

Geologists in northern Japan have unearthed fossilized amber in deep-sea clay, remnants of a tsunami that struck 115 million years ago. This ancient disaster uprooted coastal forests, sending resin to the ocean floor. This remarkable discovery sheds light on the profound effects of tsunamis on sediment transport and carbon cycling in marine ecosystems.

1 of 1

Story summary

Geologists in northern Japan have unearthed fossilized amber in deep-sea clay, remnants of a tsunami that struck 115 million years ago. This ancient disaster uprooted coastal forests, sending resin to the ocean floor. This remarkable discovery sheds light on the profound effects of tsunamis on sediment transport and carbon cycling in marine ecosystems.