Overview of the October 25, 2010 Event
On October 25, 2010, at 14:42:22 UTC, a tsunami occurred off the coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. Generated by a magnitude 7.8 earthquake centered at geographic coordinates -3.487 latitude and 100.082 longitude, the event displaced coastal waters and produced significant waves recorded along the region's shorelines. According to the NOAA/NCEI Global Historical Tsunami Database (Event ID 5342), the entry carries a validity rating of 4, denoting a definite tsunami event.
Seismological and Physical Measurements
The tsunami was directly associated with earthquake activity (cause code 1). Seismological observations recorded the primary earthquake magnitude at 7.8. Hydrodynamic data compiled in the historical record indicate a maximum recorded water height of 16.9 meters. Water heights varied across coastal locations, and this figure represents the peak wave measurement documented in the record rather than a uniform height across all affected shores.
Impact and Casualty Metrics
Historical data confirm substantial human and material consequences resulting from the earthquake and tsunami. The database records 431 deaths associated with the event. Financial estimates document approximately $39.0 million USD in total property damage.
Summary of Database Parameters
The table below summarizes the key recorded parameters for the October 25, 2010 event as archived in the NOAA/NCEI Global Historical Tsunami Database.
| Parameter | Recorded Value |
|---|---|
| Event Date and Time | 2010-10-25 14:42:22 UTC |
| Location | Sumatra, Indonesia (-3.487°N, 100.082°E) |
| Earthquake Magnitude | 7.8 |
| Tsunami Validity Rating | 4 (Definite tsunami) |
| Maximum Water Height | 16.9 meters |
| Fatalities | 431 |
| Damage Assessment | $39.0 million USD |
Frequently asked questions
What caused the October 25, 2010 tsunami in Sumatra?
The tsunami was caused by a magnitude 7.8 earthquake centered at latitude -3.487 and longitude 100.082 off Sumatra, Indonesia.
What was the maximum water height recorded for this event?
The NOAA/NCEI Global Historical Tsunami Database records a maximum water height of 16.9 meters for the October 25, 2010 tsunami.
What were the recorded impacts on lives and property?
The historical record documents 431 fatalities and an estimated $39.0 million USD in total damage associated with the event.
Sources and further context
Official datasets support the event-specific facts.