Impact of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami on Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami hit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands on December 26, 2004, after a 9.2–9.3 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Indonesia. The tsunami caused widespread destruction and loss of life, and also led to significant land-level changes. Over 46,000 people were injured, and at least 40,000 were left homeless. Entire islands were submerged, and Trinket Island was divided in two. Communications were cut to the Nancowry group of islands, some of which were submerged. On Car Nicobar, 111 Indian Air Force personnel and their family members were washed away when the tsunami severely damaged their air base.
- The tsunami caused dramatic land-level changes, including uplift and subsidence along the coasts of the islands.
- Significant damage to mangrove forests in the Nicobar Islands, with an estimated 97% loss of mangrove cover.
- Social disruption, with many indigenous people migrating to Port Blair.
- Severe damage to infrastructure and buildings, as well as seawater intrusion into coastal aquifers.
- Loss of land, including parts of Indira Point.