December 26, 2004 M9.1 Earthquake & Indian Ocean Tsunami In the early morning hours of December 26, 2004, the Earth unleashed one of the most powerful earthquakes ever recorded. A massive M9.1 megathrust rupture off the coast of Sumatra violently displaced the seafloor, sending walls of water racing across the Indian Ocean. Within minutes, coastlines were swallowed. Entire communities vanished. Waves traveled thousands of kilometers, striking country after country with almost no warning. By the

On December 26, 2004, a devastating tsunami struck Southeast Asia, resulting in one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history, with an estimated 230,000 lives lost across 14 countries. Among the victims was Deborah Garlick, whose story became even more poignant after a photo was found from the last roll of film she took before the tsunami struck. The photo, recovered after the tragedy, captures a serene moment that now stands as a haunting reminder of lives interrupted in an instant

After a massive earthquake triggered the deadliest tsunami in recorded history, multiple waves hit the coast of Sri Lanka. Both tourists and locals scramble for safety, as the extent of the wave and its destruction become apparent. Discover the power of the human spirit through stories of hope, hardship, and heroism from the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Parts one and two of Tsunami: Race Against Time premiere tonight at 9pm on National Geographic UK. | National Geographic UK