How many minutes does it take for a tsunami to hit after the water has been pulled off the shore?

The chosen answer is accurate because, after the water recedes significantly from the shore—often referred to as the "drawback"—it typically takes around 5 minutes for a tsunami to arrive. This timeframe can vary depending on various factors such as the distance from the earthquake's epicenter and the depth of the water.

Tsunamis travel at very high speeds, often reaching speeds of up to 500 to 800 kilometers per hour (approximately 310 to 500 miles per hour) in the open ocean. The initial withdrawal of water from the shore is a warning sign that a tsunami may be on its way, and recognizing this pattern is crucial for safety.

Immediately following the water's recession, the resulting waves can hit the shore within just a few minutes. Therefore, the timeframe of approximately 5 minutes correctly reflects the urgency of the situation and highlights the importance of being aware and prepared when witnessing this phenomenon occurring.