The dreaded tsunami did not materialize

Two submarine earthquakes Wednesday afternoon off the coast of the city of Banda Aceh in Indonesia did not trigger a repeat of the 2004 tsunami.

Only on Kohn Miang (Phangnga) did the water rise 10 and 30 centimeters respectively. According to British Geological Survey seismologist Susanne Sargeant, the waves were low because the earth was shaking horizontally, not vertically, preventing the seafloor from collapsing, causing a tsunami.

Alarm

The alarm was sounded in six provinces, after which thousands of residents and tourists along the Andaman coast sought safety in evacuation centers and on higher ground. The tsunami warning was lifted four hours later. The tremors were felt as far away as Bangkok, causing some businesses in high-rise buildings to close their doors prematurely. The parliamentary session also ended prematurely. Phuket airport was out of action for four hours. There were no injuries and no damage reported.

Tourism

The tourism sector along the Andaman coast expects negative consequences in the short term, especially as images of the evacuation have been circulated around the world. Local hoteliers are already offering discounted meals or free meals and rooms.

www.dickvanderlugt.nl – Source: Bangkok Post