National Geographic’s ‘Tsunami: Race Against Time’ to Mark 20th Anniversary of Indian Ocean Disaster
Debris is scattered where bungalows used to stand on Phi Phi Island's in Ton Sai Bay, Thailand, Dec. 28, 2004. (The Associated Press/Suzanne Plunket)
Four-Part Documentary Premieres on 28 November, Unveiling Untold Stories of Survival and Heroism
Johannesburg, 25 November 2024: National Geographic commemorates the 20-year anniversary of the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami with the premiere of TSUNAMI: RACE AGAINST TIME, a gripping four-part series that airs Thursdays at 20:30 (CAT) starting 28 November on DStv Channel 181 and Starsat 220. This powerful documentary chronicles the tsunami’s journey across the ocean, showcasing unseen archival footage and emotional stories of survival, scientific breakthroughs, and selfless acts of heroism in the face of the deadliest natural disaster in history.
Through firsthand accounts and breathtaking footage, the series offers an immersive and comprehensive view of the catastrophic event, highlighting the experiences of survivors, the tireless efforts of rescuers, and the scientists who raced against time to warn the world. The series also features the journalists who were on the front lines, delivering breaking news to the world as the disaster unfolded.
TSUNAMI: RACE AGAINST TIME gives viewers a 360-degree perspective of the tragic events surrounding the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. The series, produced by Tanya Winston and Danny Horan of Blast Films, and directed by Daniel Bogado—Emmy Award-winning filmmaker of 9/11: One Day in America—presents an emotional and in-depth examination of the disaster. Personal stories from survivors, coupled with powerful visuals, highlight the courage of individuals as they fought to survive and help others in the wake of destruction.
The devastation caused by the tsunami in southern Thailand’s Phi Phi Island is pictured from above, Dec. 31, 2004. (The Associated Press/Apichart Weerawong)
Episode Breakdown:
EPISODE 101 – “THE WAVE”
A massive earthquake triggers a tsunami that strikes the bustling city of Aceh, Indonesia, and tourist resorts in Thailand, leaving devastation in its wake. The episode follows the struggles of those trapped by the disaster and the scientists racing to warn the world of the impending disaster.
EPISODE 102 – “THAILAND”
Multiple waves hit Thailand, wreaking havoc on the popular coastal resorts. Locals and tourists alike fight to save lives, and survivors desperately search for their loved ones amid the chaos.
EPISODE 103 – “BREAKING NEWS”
In Sri Lanka, waves from the tsunami wreck a train and destroy coastal cities. Doctors work tirelessly to save the injured, while journalists break the news of the disaster to the world, and survivors come to grips with the loss of their families.
EPISODE 104 – “RESCUE”
After the tsunami, tourists find themselves stranded on an island with no way to escape. As the waters recede, survivors from around the world work together to perform life-saving rescues. The episode highlights the heroic efforts of those who defied the odds to save others, revealing the true scale of the global catastrophe.
