How did the tsunami affect different countries?

This lesson, we’ll see how the devastation caused by the earthquake and tsunami was

both serious and extensive. The damage and loss of life was worst in low lying, densely

populated areas.

The Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami of 2004 was one of the most deadly and destructive natural disasters in modern history.

The disaster began with the earthquake which destroyed towns and villages in northern Sumatra. This was followed by the tsunami which was to cause the most serious damage and loss of life. The tsunami waves devastated coastal areas throughout the Indian Ocean region and even reached the coast of Mexico almost 16,000 km (10,000 miles) away.

No-one will ever know the exact number of people killed as a result of the tsunami but it is believed to be over 310,000. Indonesia was worst hit but some 11 other countries were also seriously affected by the tsunami waves.

So why was the death toll so high and the damage so extensive? The main reason is that the tsunami was extremely powerful and affected a very large area.

1. Imagine you are one of the people in this photo who survived the tsunami. Describe what happened, and your feelings at the time. Try and include these words:

huge crashing

roaring panic

frightened run

escape debris

trapped washed away

escape relief

friends family

2. Complete a tsunami disaster FactFile using the table below.

3. Draw a star diagram like the one below, to explain the serious damage and loss of life. Write only four or five words in each box.