The 2004 Indian Ocean Earthquake occurred on December 26, 2004, with a magnitude of 9.1 to 9.3. It was one of the strongest earthquakes ever recorded, originating off the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. The quake triggered a series of devastating tsunamis that affected several countries bordering the Indian Ocean, including Thailand, Sri Lanka, and India. The tsunamis caused widespread destruction, leading to the loss of over 230,000 lives and displacing millions. The disaster prompted a massive international humanitarian response, with countries and organizations providing aid and support to the affected regions. The event highlighted the need for better tsunami warning systems in vulnerable areas.