Faces of Disaster: Remembering 8 Worst Tsunamis in History

Indian Ocean Tsunami

In 2004, a massive 9.1 earthquake in the Indian Ocean caused a devastating tsunami that took over 230,000 lives across Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, and more.

Lisbon Earthquake & Tsunami

In 1755, an 8.5 magnitude earthquake triggered a tsunami with 50-meter waves that caused approximately 80,000 deaths across Portugal, Morocco, Spain, and beyond.

Tohoku Earthquake & Tsunami

In 2011, a 9.0 earthquake and 10-meter tsunami waves in Japan led to over 18,000 deaths and the Fukushima nuclear disaster, amplifying the impact of the natural disaster.

Krakatau Eruption & Tsunami

In 1883, a volcanic eruption generated waves up to 40 meters high that devastated nearby islands in Indonesia, causing approximately 36,000 fatalities.

Sundra Strait Tsunami

In 2018, volcanic activity triggered a landslide in Indonesia, generating 34-meter-high waves that killed around 2,200 people.

Maule Earthquake & Tsunami

In 2010, an 8.8 magnitude earthquake in Chile generated tsunami waves exceeding 30 meters, causing over 800 fatalities in Chile and affecting other Pacific nations.

Valdivia Earthquake & Tsunami

In 1960, a massive 9.5 magnitude earthquake in Chile generated a tsunami that caused approximately 2,200 deaths in Chile and impacted Hawaii, Japan, and other countries.

Sanriku Tsunami

In 1896, a 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Japan generated a tsunami with waves up to 22 meters high, causing nearly 22,000 fatalities.