==Wave characteristics==
Teahupo'o is a |reef break. The swells mainly break left, but the outer reef also creates right breaks tha surfers must be cautious of when paddling out. Teahupo'o is also renowned for the consistent number of Tube riding|barrels it delivers. It is a rewarding location and is widely regarded as being on the 'must-surf' list of every enthusiastic surfer. However, only experienced surfers in peak physical condition should attempt Teahupo'o; heavy waves combined with a shallow shoreline can result in serious injuries and even death in a wipeout.
Teahupo'o's legendary reputation for wave riding is partly due to its unique form. An extremely shallow coral reef, which ranges up to 20inches beneath the waters surface, is responsible for a very hollow-breaking wave. The wave's unique shape, with an effect of almost breaking below sea level, is due to the specific shape of the reef beneath the wave. Its semi circular nature, which drops down sharply creates a 'below water' effect and the extreme angles in descent create an instant instability to the wave. A steep wall of reef causes the entire mass to fold onto a scalloped semi circle breaking arcThe wave bends and races along into a dry reef closeout and the lip of the wave is often as thick as it is tall.
==Deaths at Teahupo'o==
Teahupo'o was included on Transworld Surf's list of the' Top 10 Deadliest Waves' and is commonly referred to as the "heaviest wave in the world".
There have been 5 recorded deaths at Teahupo'o since 2000. Most notably was local [Tahitian people|Tahitian] surfer Briece Taerea who was killed at Teahupo'o in 2000, just one week before the annual [Billabong Pro Teahupoo|Teahupo'o WCT event]. Taerea attempted to duck-dive a dangerous 12-foot wave but was thrown over the falls, landing head first onto the reef. He was recovered from the water, but died later in hospital, suffering from two broken cervical vertebra and severed spinal cord, resulting in paralysis from the neck down.
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