On December 26, 2004, a magnitude 9.1–9.3 undersea earthquake off Sumatra triggered one of the deadliest natural disasters in human history. The resulting tsunami waves, some rising over 100 feet high, devastated coastlines across the Indian Ocean, striking Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, the Maldives, and even reaching East Africa. In just a few hours, more than 230,000 people lost their lives, with Indonesia suffering the greatest toll. Entire villages were erased, millions displaced, and survivors faced hunger, disease, and trauma. Lacking a tsunami warning system, communities had no chance to escape the surging waters. The tragedy sparked an unprecedented global response. Billions of dollars in aid flowed in, relief teams mobilized worldwide, and a new Indian Ocean tsunami warning network was established. Communities slowly rebuilt from the ruins, showing extraordinary resilience despite unimaginable loss. The Boxing Day Tsunami was not only a disaster but also a wake-up call: a reminder of the ocean’s destructive potential, the importance of preparedness, and the unbreakable spirit of humanity in the face of overwhelming tragedy.