Source inversion and numerical simulation of 2017 M w 8.1 Mexico earthquake tsunami

Based on the nonlinear shallow water equations and tsunami measurement, this study has presented the inversion source, which is generated by an earthquake of M w 8.1 that occurred in Pijijiapan, Mexico, on September 8, 2017. The seafloor deformation induced by the inversed tsunami source reached maximum uplift of 0.5 m and subsidence of − 1.4 m. The numerical results simulated by the inversed source could match well with the measured data. We characterize tsunami propagation scenarios regarding tsunami amplitude and currents. Unlike the feature of tsunami wave amplitude propagation in the deep ocean, the currents induced by the tsunami are confined to shallow coasts, noted as the contour of 400 m water depth. Although most regions endure tsunamigenic currents below 3 knots (1.5 m/s) or in range of 3–6 knots (1.5–3 m/s), which is the threshold from no damage to minor–moderate damage, the duration lasting several hours indicates the potential beach erosion and sediment transport. The eddies of tsunami-induced currents could be identified at the entrance gate of lagoon named Mar Muerto with a finer grid. Finally, the dispersion effect has been investigated on tsunami propagation in the Pacific Ocean.