On May 21, 1792, a destructive tsunami struck Shimabara Bay on Kyushu Island, Japan. Recorded in the NOAA/NCEI Global Historical Tsunami Database under event ID 568 with a validity rating of 4, this historical event is associated with an earthquake measuring magnitude 6.4.
Event Measurements and Human Impact
The tsunami generated extreme water heights along the affected coastline. According to the historical record, the maximum water height reached 55.0 meters. The event caused severe human casualties and injuries in the region:
- Total Deaths: 15,000
- Total Injuries: 707
- Associated Earthquake Magnitude: 6.4
- Maximum Recorded Water Height: 55.0 meters
Geographic and Database Context
The event occurred at coordinates 32.75 latitude and 130.3 longitude in Shimabara Bay, Japan. In the global hazard cataloging framework, validity 4 indicates a definite tsunami occurrence with reliable historical documentation. The data for this event is maintained by the NOAA/NCEI Global Historical Tsunami Database.
Frequently asked questions
When did the Shimabara Bay tsunami occur?
The tsunami occurred on May 21, 1792 CE.
What was the maximum water height recorded for the 1792 Shimabara Bay tsunami?
The maximum recorded water height was 55.0 meters.
How many casualties were reported from the event?
The historical record notes 15,000 deaths and 707 injuries.
Was an earthquake associated with the tsunami?
Yes, the event was associated with an earthquake of magnitude 6.4.
Sources and further context
Official datasets support the event-specific facts.