March 13

On March 13, 1888, the volcanic eruption of Ritter Island in Papua New Guinea caused a massive flank collapse. The collapse generated powerful tsunamis that devastated nearby coastal communities and islands. Waves up to 15 meters high swept across villages, claiming as many as 3,000 lives. The disaster stands as one of the deadliest volcanic-triggered tsunamis in recorded history. Few survivors remained to recount the sudden upheaval and widespread destruction. The event highlighted the lethal potential of volcanic island collapses and informed future disaster studies.

On March 13, 1974, Sierra Pacific Airlines Flight 802 encountered poor weather and mountainous terrain during its approach to Bishop, California. The aircraft crashed into the White Mountains, killing all 36 passengers and crew on board. Investigators determined that navigational errors and limited visibility contributed to the tragic accident. The crash underscored the challenges of small commuter flights operating in remote, high-altitude regions. Safety protocols and instrument landing systems were later improved to prevent similar incidents. The accident remains a somber reminder of the risks in regional air travel.

On March 13, 1992, a powerful magnitude 6.6 earthquake struck near Erzincan in eastern Turkey, reaching a maximum Mercalli intensity of VIII (Severe). The tremor demolished homes, schools, and hospitals, leaving thousands homeless and injuring over a thousand people. Landslides and aftershocks further complicated rescue operations, which were hampered by damaged roads and infrastructure. The Turkish government and international aid agencies mobilized to provide shelter, medical care, and food to survivors. Official reports estimated hundreds of fatalities and significant economic losses in the region. The disaster prompted a nationwide review of building standards and seismic preparedness measures. Reconstruction efforts over the following years emphasized earthquake-resistant design to mitigate future disasters. The Erzincan earthquake remains a stark reminder of Turkey's seismic vulnerabilities.

On March 13, 1993, a powerful nor'easter known as the 'Storm of the Century' began sweeping across the eastern United States, stretching from Florida to Maine. The storm unleashed blizzard conditions, dumping more than two feet of snow in inland areas and producing hurricane-force winds along the coast. Storm surges of six feet or more inundated low-lying communities, causing widespread property damage. Rail lines were disrupted, major highways became impassable, and airports halted operations as visibility dropped to near zero. Emergency services struggled to reach isolated towns, and power outages left millions in the dark. The storm claimed over 270 lives and caused billions of dollars in economic losses. In the aftermath, improved forecasting techniques and enhanced emergency planning were implemented to better prepare for future mega-storms.

On March 13, 2012, a bus transporting schoolchildren and teachers from Belgium veered off a mountain road near Sierre in the Swiss Alps. The coach descended a steep embankment, rolled several times, and came to rest against a tree. Of the 52 people on board, 28—mostly children—were killed, making it one of Switzerland's deadliest road accidents in decades. Rescue teams faced freezing temperatures and challenging terrain to extricate survivors and recover the deceased. Investigations focused on road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and driver experience. The tragedy prompted Belgium and Switzerland to review safety protocols for school trips and mountain travel. Memorial services and a national day of mourning were held in Belgium, honoring the young victims and their families. The accident led to strengthened regulations for cross-border transport of students.