Performance of Structures in Thailand during the December 2004 Great Sumatra Earthquake and Indian Ocean Tsunami

A reconnaissance was conducted in Thailand to investigate the effects of the 26 December 2004 tsunami on buildings, bridges, and other physical infrastructure. It was observed that nonengineered reinforced concrete buildings, low-rise timber frames, and unreinforced masonry walls suffered extensive damage from hydrodynamic pressures generated by the tsunami. A large number of nonengineered reinforced concrete frame buildings experienced partial or total collapse, while well-designed engineered structures survived the tsunami with little or no damage. Specific observations made during the reconnaissance indicate the engineering significance of the disaster.