Survivors Reflect on Boxing Day Tsunami

Two decades after the Boxing Day tsunami of 2004, survivors are reflecting on their harrowing experiences and how the disaster has shaped their lives. Luke Simon, who was in Thailand, escaped the 100ft wave after hearing the chilling words 'Water, coming', while Clare Allen, who was in Sri Lanka, found purpose through tragedy by establishing a charity focused on education access. Daniel Poole, another survivor, described the chaos as he witnessed the tsunami engulf his guesthouse during a surfing trip, ultimately leading him to work with ShelterBox, a disaster-relief charity. Amber Owen, saved by an elephant during the disaster in Thailand, has had her story immortalized in children's literature. The tsunami claimed over 230,000 lives across 14 countries, prompting significant changes in disaster response strategies. As survivors share their stories, they highlight the importance of remembrance and the lessons learned from such a devastating event.