Exclusive: Australian Journalist Kimina Lyall’s Harrowing Escape from the Boxing Day Tsunami
Australian journalist Kimina Lyall found herself at the heart of one of the worst natural disasters in history: the Boxing Day tsunami that struck on December 26, 2004. It was a typical morning for the then-38-year-old, who had just finished filing an article and was meeting with her partner at a resort on the tiny island of Ko Phra Thong, also known as the “Golden Buddha Island.”
The tranquility of the morning was shattered by a deafening sound that cut through the air, leaving everyone puzzled. Lyall initially mistook it for a plane crash but soon realized the horrifying truth as she saw a massive wave rushing towards the beach. Panic ensued as the realization of the looming disaster set in.
Escaping the Tsunami
Lyall’s quick thinking and gut instinct led her to seek higher ground as she scrambled to the top of a hill, narrowly escaping the deadly tsunami that ravaged the island. The wave tore through Ko Phra Thong, claiming the lives of 94 people, including 13 from Lyall’s side of the island.
Life After the Tsunami
The aftermath of the tsunami was as devastating as the event itself. With no boats to leave the island, Lyall was stranded, unable to cover the unfolding tragedy. When she finally returned to Australia, she struggled to come to terms with the traumatic experience, leading to the breakdown of her relationship, a PTSD diagnosis, and eventually, leaving her job as a journalist.
Turning Trauma into Advocacy
Despite the challenges she faced, Lyall found a new purpose in life. She retrained as a psychologist, joined the Dart Centre for Journalism and Trauma, and dedicated herself to training journalists in trauma-safe reporting. Returning to Thailand, she penned her book, “Out of the Blue: Facing the Tsunami,” sharing her harrowing experience with the world.
As the 20th anniversary of the tsunami approached, Lyall found herself unexpectedly overwhelmed by emotions, reflecting on the lives lost and the lasting impact of the disaster. Through it all, she has emerged as a beacon of resilience, reminding us that everyone faces their own “tsunami” at some point in life, shaping their journey and defining their strength.