Impact of tsunami on terrestrial ecosystems of Yala National Park, Sri Lanka

Yala National Park in southeast Sri Lanka, lay in the direct path of the December 2004 tsunami, hence afforded a rare opportunity to study tsunami impacts on a natural ecosystem. We surveyed the impacted area and studied the damage caused to vegetation, early response of vegetation, and effects on animals. Tsunami incursion was patchy, much of the coast being protected by sand dunes. Although impact on vegetation within inundated areas was intense, survival and resiliency of the flora were high. Recovery of vegetation will be rapid and mainly a process of regeneration rather than primary succession. Few large animals were impacted by the tsunami. The occurrence of any major long-term effects on fauna is unlikely.