Approximately 230,000 people died in the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami.
The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami was triggered by a massive underwater earthquake off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, on December 26, 2004. This devastating event impacted numerous countries across the Indian Ocean region, resulting in widespread destruction and a staggering loss of life.
- Magnitude: The earthquake that caused the tsunami registered a magnitude of 9.1-9.3, making it one of the largest earthquakes ever recorded.
- Impacted Regions: The tsunami waves radiated outwards from the epicenter, affecting countries including Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Thailand, Somalia, Myanmar, Malaysia, Maldives, and others.
- Casualties: The exact number of fatalities is difficult to ascertain precisely, but estimates place the total around 230,000. This makes it one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history.
- Long-Term Effects: Beyond the immediate loss of life, the tsunami caused widespread displacement, economic hardship, and long-term psychological trauma in affected communities.
The 2004 tsunami stands as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of disaster preparedness and early warning systems.
