2004

he tsunami struck on December 26, 2004, shortly after a powerful 9.1-9.3 magnitude earthquake beneath the Indian Ocean seabed. It affected countries around the Indian Ocean, including Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, and even reached as far as the east coast of Africa. The disaster caused massive loss of life and displacement, with entire coastal communities wiped out The last recorded fatalities from the tsunami were swept out to sea in South Africa, highlighting the vast reach of the waves. The event prompted a global humanitarian response and led to the establishment of the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning System to help prevent future tragedies.