Two new series that focus on tsnuamis have emerged lately: One is a narrative import and the other is a documentary.

La Palma
A Norwegian family is vacationing in a Canary Islands resort when a volcano eruption leads to a massive tsunami. But…you have to wade thru 3 episodes before it hits. Before that we meet the family and their friends (including one unlikely quick love affair for the teen daughter). Meanwhile, scientists are trying to determine if it will occur and if so, how to warn the threatened countries. When the disaster finally strikes, it’s over in a few minutes and the rest of the show has the family trying to reconnect. This is much more about the relationships than the tsunami, making it more a family drama. (Four 45-minute eps) (2 / 5) Netflix link

Tsunami: Race Against Time
The world watched in shock and horror as the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami affected 14 countries and killed thousands. This series has 4 parts, each one detailing the destruction in a different area of the catastrophe. It features often-gripping interviews with survivors plus lots of footage shot by people who were witnessing the calamity first hand. There are also regular visits to Hawaii where experts are tracking the tsunami and attempting to warn the world. Narrative films can be powerful (see below), but having real people relating their experiences is always compelling. (Four 45-minute eps)  Hulu Link (3.5 / 5)

There have been at least 2 narrative films that handled the subject effectively: The Impossible (my review) and Tsunami: The Aftermath from 2006 (Hulu link).