Meteotsunamis are similar to tsunamis but are not triggered by seismic activity on the ocean floor.
Instead, meteotsunamis are driven by air-pressure disturbances linked with fast-moving weather events, like severe thunderstorms.
The storm front generates the wave, which moves towards the coast, where it is amplified by a shallow continental shelf, inlet or bay.
Scientists are only just starting to understand meteotsunamis but waves of 6ft (1.8m) or more have already been observed.
Meteotsunamis occur in a number of places around the world, including the Great Lakes, Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic Coast, Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas.
Identifying a meteotsunami presents a unique set of challenges to scientists, since the characteristics of these waves are so similar to other meteorological phenomenon, including tsunamis.
It can also easily be confused with wind-driven storm surges or a seiche, which is a standing wave in an enclosed or partially enclosed body of water.
These uncertainties make it difficult to predict a meteotsunami and warn the public of a potential event.
Scientists are working to pinpoint the exact conditions which are most likely to generate a meteotsunami in an effort to improve advance warnings.
