22nd February, 2024
CHIRANJIT MITRA
Tsunamis are massive ocean waves triggered by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other seismic events. Throughout history, these waves have caused immense destruction and loss of life.
● On December 26th, 2004, a magnitude 9.1 earthquake off the coast of Sumatra unleashed a tsunami with waves up to 100 feet high. ● The devastation spanned the Indian Ocean, claiming an estimated 230,000 lives in 14 countries. ● This is considered the deadliest natural disaster in modern history.
● A powerful magnitude 9.0 earthquake triggered a devastating tsunami that struck Japan's eastern coast on March 11th, 2011. ● Waves reaching over 40 feet high inundated coastal communities. ● The tsunami also triggered a nuclear meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi power plant, adding to the disaster's severity.
● On November 1st, 1755, a catastrophic earthquake near Portugal caused a tsunami that devastated Lisbon and surrounding areas. ● The combination of earthquake, tsunami, and subsequent fires resulted in thousands of deaths. ● This disaster had a profound impact on European philosophy and disaster preparedness.
● The volcanic eruption of Krakatoa in 1883 generated one of the most powerful explosions in recorded history. ● The resulting tsunami devastated coastlines along the Java and Sumatra straits, causing over 36,000 deaths.
● A massive earthquake in 1707 triggered a tsunami that ravaged Japan's Nankaido region. ● Waves up to 33 feet high obliterated coastal towns and villages, resulting in approximately 30,000 casualties.
● Tsunamis continue to pose a significant risk to coastal communities worldwide. ● Early warning systems and disaster preparedness are crucial for mitigating the devastating impacts of these unpredictable events.