The highest tsunami waves ever recorded occurred during the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami. The earthquake, which had a magnitude of 9.1-9.3, struck off the west coast of northern Sumatra on December 26, 2004. The resulting tsunami generated waves that reached unprecedented heights.
The maximum recorded tsunami wave height during the 2004 event was approximately 30 meters (98 feet). This measurement was documented in several locations, including Aceh, Indonesia, and Thailand. The immense size and power of these waves caused catastrophic damage along the coasts of 14 countries surrounding the Indian Ocean, resulting in the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives.
It's important to note that while the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami holds the record for the highest recorded tsunami waves, tsunamis can vary in size and height depending on factors such as the magnitude of the triggering earthquake, the depth of the water, and the underwater topography. Tsunamis have the potential to generate waves that can reach significant heights and cause devastating destruction along coastal areas.