The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, triggered by a powerful earthquake off Sumatra, Indonesia, on December 26, was one of the deadliest natural disasters in history. The quake, with a magnitude of 9.1–9.3, uplifted the seafloor, generating massive tsunami waves. These waves, reaching heights of up to 30 meters, impacted 14 countries, including Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, and the Maldives. The tsunami struck with little warning, causing immense destruction to coastal communities. It resulted in an estimated 230,000 to 280,000 deaths, displacing millions and causing widespread infrastructural damage. This catastrophe led to a substantial global humanitarian effort and significant advancements in tsunami warning systems, especially in the Indian Ocean area.
Arjune Mirchandani’s Tsunami Story
In December of 2004, I survived the 2004 Tsunami. Arjune's Tsunami Story in the News Americans recall ordeals of survival | Arjune Mirchandani Americans' harrowing tales paint images of awe, terror | Arjune Mirchandani The Eastern New Mexico News Archives | Arjune Mirchandani The Cincinnati Enquirer from Cincinnati, Ohio • Page 2 | Arjune Mirchandani [...]