[Phsstpok]

Good article, but the image included continues one of the big misconceptions people have in trying to imagine Tsunamis. As I understand it there generally isn't a huge wave curl, like pictured, or like you see in surfing films. Go back to what these used to be called: Tidal Waves.

I've been told it's better to imagine the tide, coming in and going out, but at a much accelerated rate and up to 30 feet above and below normal (that's the outflow described). Yes, there are waves associated with this, but they are on top of this large surge of water. It's the surge that kills, just like in hurricanes.

Of course, then there's Larry Niven's description of a surfer trying to surf the 1,000 meter mega tsunami from a comet impact in the Pacific Ocean in Lucifer's Hammer. He almost made it. Nose bleed from the G forces and all. If only that high rise condo hadn't been built a half mile in from Malibu Beach....

[Poohbah]

Of course, then there's Larry Niven's description of a surfer trying to surf the 1,000 meter mega tsunami from a comet impact in the Pacific Ocean in Lucifer's Hammer. He almost made it. Nose bleed from the G forces and all. If only that high rise condo hadn't been built a half mile in from Malibu Beach....

A classic scene. Niven said that he got thousands of letters asking if the surfer survived. His response:

"OK, I didn't see him hit the building."

[Howlin]

Yes, there are waves associated with this, but they are on top of this large surge of water

Check out the videos on the bottom left Here

I think you are right.