The tsunami that hit Sri Lanka in December 2004 was one of the biggest natural disasters encountered by the country that led to more than 230,000 families being affected, homes and livelihoods being lost. The tsunami and its aftermath created an ‘emergency within an emergency’ as it hit coastal areas already ravaged by 20 years of war. By this time Save the Children had been working in the country for 30 years. They were able to draw from local experience and expertise, to provide immediate response to the tsunami and to make long term plans for the future. Staff members doubled, and funding was provided to local partner organizations. Save the Children also worked with government departments and other agencies to ensure that there was a coordinated response in place. This brief, highlights the impact the tsunami had on the lives of children, and identifies the key challenges that need to be overcome in order to provide aid and rehabilitation.