Final answer:
The events of December 26, 2004, are known for the catastrophic Indian Ocean tsunami caused by a massive earthquake off the coast of Sumatra, resulting in over 230,000 deaths in various countries and triggering a substantial international aid response.
Step-by-step explanation:
The events of December 26, 2004, are known for the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami that resulted from one of the largest earthquakes ever recorded, with a magnitude of 9.1–9.3. This natural disaster primarily affected Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, and the Maldives. Here are three facts about that day:
- The undersea megathrust earthquake that caused the tsunami was triggered off the west coast of northern Sumatra, Indonesia.
- Approximately 230,000 to 280,000 people lost their lives in 14 different countries, making it one of the deadliest natural disasters in recorded history.
- In response to the catastrophe, there was a massive international humanitarian response, with billions of dollars in aid donated to the affected regions to assist with recovery efforts and the reconstruction of infrastructure.