Ancient asteroid impact created 330-foot tsunami in North Sea
Divers and ocean researchers can now better understand ancient impact events and their geological effects.
A massive asteroid struck the North Sea around 43 to 46 million years ago, creating a 330-foot tsunami. Scientists have confirmed the impact by analyzing seismic data, rock samples, and computer simulations. The Silverpit Crater, discovered in 2002, was long debated but now stands as a confirmed impact site. The findings highlight the power of asteroid impacts and their potential to reshape ocean environments.
- Researchers at Heriot-Watt University confirmed the asteroid impact that formed the Silverpit Crater.
- Seismic imaging and rock samples revealed shocked minerals, proving the impact hypothesis.
- A 160-meter asteroid struck the seabed, displacing water and creating a 100-meter tsunami.
- The crater is located 700 meters beneath the North Sea, near Yorkshire, England.