1956-07-09 tsunami – CYCLADES: Historical Tsunami Record and Measurements

On July 9, 1956, a destructive tsunami struck the Cyclades region in Greece, following an associated earthquake. According to the NOAA/NCEI Global Historical Tsunami Database, the event is recorded with a validity rating of 4, indicating a definite tsunami occurrence.

Event Timing and Location

The event took place on July 9, 1956, at 03:11:45.2 UTC. The epicenter and associated activity were located in the Cyclades region of Greece at coordinates 36.664° latitude and 25.957° longitude.

Earthquake Association and Measurements

The tsunami was triggered by an earthquake with a magnitude of 7.7. Historical measurements for this event document severe physical impacts and water displacement:

  • Maximum Water Height: A recorded maximum water height of 20.0 meters.
  • Fatalities: 56 deaths.
  • Injuries: 100 injuries.

Frequently asked questions

When did the 1956 Cyclades tsunami occur?

The tsunami occurred on July 9, 1956, at 03:11:45.2 UTC.

What caused the 1956 Cyclades tsunami?

The tsunami was associated with an earthquake measuring 7.7 in magnitude.

What was the maximum water height recorded during the event?

The recorded maximum water height reached 20.0 meters.

How many casualties were reported?

The historical database records 56 deaths and 100 injuries resulting from the event.

Sources and further context

Official datasets support the event-specific facts.