Remembering It All – The Asian Tsunami of 2004

Coming back to the States for a well deserved break and to be with my family after 2 years feels great! I was worried initially about being a ‘foreign tourist’ in my own home in Seattle, Washington; but home is home. Everything comes back naturally, in a short time frame despite me living in Asia from Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong. I have been taking pictures for press publications and pre wedding in Asia for years, so I was afraid of not being able to readjust to the sights, sounds, culture(?) and lighting conditions back home in the States.

Looking around at the amount of advancements in civilization and technology both in the States and Asia, I assume one could be euphoric regading this “age of comfort”. Some, perhaps, might even call this phase; ”golden age” but to me, I have always looked back and remembered the wraith of mother nature that hit the shores of Phuket, Thailand in 2004.

On the morning of December 26th, 2004 at 9.30 am in Phuket, Thailand, I was on my way to the beach on my little rented motorbike but decided to stop at a convenience store to get some food and drinks. Like any tourist in Asia, I was taken in by the sheer beauty of the beach, people and surroundings. However, something ikred me and I suddenly decided to work out at the Kata gym before I went to the beach. Little did I know that decision saved my life.

What follows this posting  are the aftermath of the Asian Tsunami of 2004, in photos, that had hit the shores of Phuket, Thailand, and I was very lucky to have escaped with my family. I was also one of the first Photojournalist to get the pictures out to the world via the agency I was working for, Associated Press, and I do not say that with pride, cause  too many people were lost during those short split seconds. 

Waiting for Assistance

Reflecting in the Water

Searching for Answers

Mother Nature Sends a Warning

Waiting for News

The Normally Clear Blue Sea, Churning Brown

The Normally Packed Bar, Now Empty

What Remains of The Hotel Lobby

The Siren Beckons on Land

These photos were downsized as they were extremely big, so there is loss of resolution. I have cropped many of them. To all the survivors of the Asian Tsunami around Asia. I salute your resilience, persistance and your will to carry on. This is a dedication to all of you.

For futher reading on the Asian Tsunami of 2004, you can view a list of references here.