Almost seven years after the devastating tsunami of 2004, more than 20 nations* will participate on 12 October in a full-scale exercise to test the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System. This exercise, organized under the auspices of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, will also see responsibility for the issue of advisories handed over to the countries of the region through a new regional tsunami advisory service.

• Over $2 million worth of medical supplies and much needed antibiotics and other pharmaceuticals have been airlifted by our partners SykyLink and Singapore Airlines to India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

• Cathay Pacific and Sri Lankan airlines are offering services too.

December 30, 2004 - Eight south Asian nations have been adversely affected by Sunday’s 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunamis (tidal waves). The world's most powerful earthquake in 40 years struck deep under the Indian Ocean off the west coast of Sumatra early Dec. 26, triggering tidal waves up to 20 feet high. Over 120,000 people have lost their lives and untold millions have been left without food, shelter and safe drinking water.

A massive earthquake of magnitude 9.0 (USGS), hit Indonesia (off the West Coast of Northern Sumatra) on 26th morning at 06:58 a.m. This is the biggest in 40 years and the fifth strongest since 1900. It triggered the tsunami in southeast Asia and coastal India.