THAILAND this week marked 20 years since the devastating Boxing Day tsunami, one of the deadliest natural disasters in modern history, which claimed around 230,000 lives across a dozen countries.
On December 26th, 2004, a massive 9.1-magnitude undersea earthquake struck off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia, triggering colossal waves that swept across coastal regions in Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, and as far as East Africa. The disaster displaced approximately 1.7 million people and left unimaginable destruction in its wake.
In Banda Aceh, one of the hardest-hit areas, survivors and relatives gathered at mass graves to honour those lost. In Ulee Lheue village, where over 14,000 unidentified victims are buried, mourners paid their respects, many openly weeping as they remembered loved ones.
In Thailand’s Phang Nga province, ceremonies were held to commemorate the thousands who perished, including many international tourists. Similarly, in Sri Lanka, survivors and families visited the coastal village of Peraliya, where nearly 2,000 passengers aboard the ‘Queen of the Sea’ train were killed when the wave struck. Only a handful of people survived.
Memorial events were also held in India, where people scattered flower petals and poured milk into the Bay of Bengal in a symbolic act of remembrance.
Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, acknowledged the anniversary, stating: “This week marks 20 years since the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami that took the lives of so many. My thoughts are with those who lost loved ones and the millions affected by the disaster, as well as those who aided in the recovery.”
In Aceh, where waves reached heights of 167 feet and floodwaters penetrated up to three miles inland, extensive rebuilding efforts have transformed the region. Schools, hospitals, and homes have been reconstructed with improved resilience, thanks to significant international support.
Early warning systems are now in place along vulnerable coastlines, offering vital minutes for evacuation in the event of another tsunami.
Annual commemorations continue to play a significant role in preserving the memory of those lost and educating younger generations about disaster preparedness.
Two decades on, the Boxing Day tsunami remains a stark reminder of nature’s immense power and the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of tragedy.
BOXING DAY TSUNAMI: AN ELEPHANT TOOK ME TO SAFETY
Amber Mason, from Milton Keynes, was just eight years old when she survived the Boxing Day tsunami in Thailand, thanks to an elephant named Ningnong.
Amber was on holiday with her mother and stepfather in Phuket when the earthquake struck. That morning, she was riding Ningnong down to the beach as part of her usual routine at the children’s club.
Recalling the moment, Amber said, “I noticed the water had gone really far back, leaving bumpy sand and fish. Then, all the animals started running off.”
As the water began rushing in, Ningnong, guided by its instinct, pulled away from the handler and carried Amber to safety on a concrete stage at the hotel. “I could tell the animals knew what was going on,” she said.
The hotel, surrounded by lagoons, was not as severely affected as other areas, and Amber’s family managed to return home on New Year’s Eve.
Amber’s extraordinary story later inspired renowned author Michael Morpurgo to write the children’s book Running Wild, which was later adapted into a stage play. Amber had the opportunity to meet Morpurgo and the cast, describing it as an unforgettable experience.
Reflecting on the events, Amber said, “It makes you really grateful for everything that’s happened to you. Things happen for a reason, and this was my reason — you’ve just got to live life to the fullest.”
Her story serves as a testament to the incredible bond between humans and animals and the instincts that sometimes bridge the gap between survival and tragedy.
