Scientist warns potential collapse of Spanish volcano could trigger megatsunami

A potential structural failure at a volcano in Spain's Canary Islands could create a giant ocean wave capable of reaching the East Coast of the United States within hours, according to research cited by the New York Post and the Daily Mail. Volcanologist Professor Bill McGuire warned that a flank collapse at Cumbre Vieja could displace huge volumes of ocean water. However, the New York Post reported that scientists emphasize such an Atlantic event is not imminently expected, and whether it will ever happen remains an open scientific question. [1][2]

The Daily Mail reported that computer modeling published in McGuire's article for BBC Science Focus indicates waves approximately 65 feet high could reach the state of Florida nine hours after a worst-case collapse. McGuire explained in the publication that concern focuses on a massive wall of rock that is slowly moving toward the sea, as reported by the New York Post. [1][2]

The Cumbre Vieja volcano forms a vast volcanic ridge that stretches roughly 12 miles and rises nearly 6,400 feet above sea level, according to the Daily Mail. It is located on the island of La Palma within the Canary Islands, an archipelago off the coast of northwest Africa. The Canary Islands are part of Spain, which is situated in Southern and Western Europe. [1][2][4]

The East Coast of the United States encompasses the Atlantic coastline where the Eastern United States meets the ocean. Experts stress that while a collapse of the rock wall could produce a deadly transatlantic tsunami, the timing of any potential disaster remains uncertain. [1][3]