Mysterious holes at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean: what is it

At the end of 2015, scientists from the University of Texas Institute of Geophysics discovered previously unknown holes that stretch along the west coast of the North America. Already this year, researchers have encountered a frightening phenomenon — these holes began to actively emit hot liquid.

In total, divers have discovered hundreds of holes that originate from Vancouver (Canada) to California (USA). Clusters of holes have also been found off the coast of Newport, near Oregon.

There are more and more holes appearing. They "breed" in groups of 3-4 holes per square meter. They are located randomly at a depth of up to 4 km and at a distance of about 80 km from the coast. The average size of each hole is about 5 centimeters.

They scared the scientists. Why?

The fact is that researchers have never seen such a phenomenon. Previously, people had encountered holes on the ocean floor, but these holes were caused by the vital activity of crustaceans.

Initially, it was assumed that other animals had dug holes, but this theory was instantly destroyed when divers encountered a new "miracle" — now liquid is flowing from the Pacific holes, which heats the water in the area. On average, the water near the holes is 9°C warmer than in a place without them.

Further investigation showed that the composition of the outgoing liquid contains particles of boron, lithium and metal, which are more than 2 million years old. At this stage, the scientists were able to make a final conclusion.

Geologists and seismologists joined the study. It turned out that these holes are located exactly at the junction of the Pacific and North American tectonic plates. The liquid coming from the holes indicates that the plates are now in the active phase, and are moving towards each other. Accordingly, there is less space between the plates, and the contents are forced out through holes on the ocean floor.

Scientists and representatives of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management believe that people should prepare for a strong earthquake of magnitude 9 — the most powerful earthquake that can be on Earth. Such an impact will lead to the destruction of stone buildings and the formation of a tsunami up to 30.5 meters high.

It is unclear when this earthquake will occur. Now scientists are conducting new research, the purpose of which is not disclosed.