Overview of the 1707-10-28 Enshunada Tsunami
On October 28, 1707 CE, a severe tsunami struck the Enshunada coast of Japan. The event was generated by a major earthquake with an estimated magnitude of 8.4. According to the official entry in the NOAA/NCEI Global Historical Tsunami Database (Event ID 2952), the disaster resulted in 2000 reported deaths and produced a maximum recorded water height of 11.0 meters.
Geographic and Seismic Parameters
The event originated at coordinates 34.1° N, 137.8° E off the location recorded as Enshunada, Japan. The underlying mechanism is designated with cause code 1, denoting a direct earthquake association. The historical event timestamp is recorded at 4.0 hours.
The table below summarizes the key observations preserved in the historical database record for this event:
| Field | Measurement / Parameter |
|---|---|
| Event Date | 1707-10-28 |
| Event Hour | 4.0 |
| Location | ENSHUNADA, JAPAN |
| Coordinates | 34.1° N, 137.8° E |
| Earthquake Magnitude | 8.4 |
| Maximum Water Height | 11.0 meters |
| Total Deaths | 2000 |
| Record Validity | 4 (Definite Tsunami) |
Historical Runup and Data Reliability
The historical data confirms a major runup exceeding 5 meters, with maximum water height reaching 11.0 meters at the primary observation site. This water height reflects the maximum recorded measurement rather than a uniform height across the entire coastline.
The database assigns the record a validity score of 4, indicating that historical primary sources confirm a definite tsunami event. The loss of life is recorded at 2000 fatalities, establishing it as a fatal historical event associated with tectonic activity off the Japanese coast.
Frequently asked questions
When did the Enshunada tsunami occur?
The event occurred on October 28, 1707 CE, with an event hour recorded at 4.0.
What was the magnitude of the earthquake that caused the tsunami?
The associated earthquake had an estimated magnitude of 8.4.
What was the maximum recorded water height and casualty toll?
Historical records document a maximum water height of 11.0 meters and a total of 2000 fatalities.
Sources and further context
Official datasets support the event-specific facts.