On May 7, 1842 CE, a severe seismic event off the northern coast of Haiti generated a destructive tsunami recorded in historical catalogs. According to the NOAA/NCEI Global Historical Tsunami Database, the event occurred at approximately hour 21.0 near coordinates 19.75 latitude and -72.2 longitude, impacting the coastal area of Cap-Haïtien.
Event Overview and Seismic Characteristics
The tsunami was triggered by an earthquake with a recorded magnitude of 8.1. The seismic disturbance generated ocean waves that reached the coastline, causing catastrophic inundation in northern Haiti. In the NOAA/NCEI database, the event is cataloged under event ID 726 with a validity rating of 4, indicating a definite tsunami observation based on documented historical accounts.
Recorded Water Heights and Impact
The historical database lists a maximum water height of 5.0 meters associated with the event at Cap-Haïtien. This measurement represents the peak recorded water level rather than a uniform height along the entire affected coastline.
The combined impact of the magnitude 8.1 earthquake and the subsequent tsunami waves caused severe casualties. Historical records attribute 5300 fatalities to the disaster, marking it as a major fatal natural event in the region's recorded history.
Database Record Summary
The following table summarizes the primary parameters documented in the NOAA/NCEI Global Historical Tsunami Database for this event:
| Parameter | Recorded Value |
|---|---|
| Event Date | May 7, 1842 CE |
| Recorded Hour | 21.0 |
| Location | Cap-Haïtien, Haiti |
| Coordinates | 19.75 latitude, -72.2 longitude |
| Earthquake Magnitude | 8.1 |
| Maximum Water Height | 5.0 meters |
| Reported Fatalities | 5300 |
| Tsunami Validity | 4 (Definite) |
Frequently asked questions
When did the 1842 Cap-Haïtien tsunami take place?
The tsunami occurred on May 7, 1842 CE, following an earthquake recorded at approximately hour 21.0.
What was the magnitude of the earthquake associated with the tsunami?
The NOAA/NCEI database lists an earthquake magnitude of 8.1 associated with this tsunami.
What maximum wave height was documented for this event?
A maximum water height of 5.0 meters was recorded at Cap-Haïtien.
How many fatalities were attributed to the 1842 event?
The historical record documents 5300 deaths resulting from the earthquake and tsunami.
Sources and further context
Official datasets support the event-specific facts.