What causes tidal waves to form?

Tidal waves, also known as tsunamis, are caused by underwater disturbances such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, or landslides. These events displace large volumes of water, creating waves that radiate outward. In deep water, these waves travel quickly and are barely noticeable, but as they approach shallower coastal areas, they grow in height, causing destructive surges. Tidal waves differ from regular tides, which are caused by the gravitational pull of the Moon and Sun.