1783day.year
Mount Asama erupts in Japan, killing about 1,400 people (Tenmei eruption). The eruption causes a famine, which results in an additional 20,000 deaths.
Mount Asama’s Tenmei eruption in 1783 kills about 1,400 people and triggers a widespread famine.
On August 4, 1783, Japan's Mount Asama erupts explosively in what becomes known as the Tenmei eruption. Pyroclastic flows and ashfall devastate nearby villages, claiming roughly 1,400 lives. The volcanic ash drifts over Kanto plains, destroying crops and initiating a famine that leads to tens of thousands more deaths. The disaster exacerbates social and economic strain during the Tenmei era, prompting government relief measures and agricultural reforms. The eruption remains one of Japan's most destructive volcanic events, with lasting impacts on demography and disaster management.
1783
Mount Asama
Tenmei eruption
famine
1889day.year
The Great Fire of Spokane, Washington destroys some 32 blocks of the city, prompting a mass rebuilding project.
The Great Fire of Spokane devastates 32 blocks of the city in 1889, prompting a major rebuilding effort.
In the early hours of August 4, 1889, a fire broke out in Spokane's downtown, fueled by dry lumber stocks and high winds.
Within hours, the blaze had consumed some 32 city blocks, destroying businesses, homes, and public buildings.
Despite its speed and ferocity, the swift actions of firefighters and citizens limited the human toll.
In the days that followed, residents rallied to clear debris and rebuild with brick and stone structures.
This rapid reconstruction effort earned Spokane the nickname 'The City of Destiny'.
The Great Fire remains a defining moment in the city's history, illustrating resilience in the face of disaster.
1889
The Great Fire
Spokane, Washington
1946day.year
An earthquake of magnitude 8.0 hits northern Dominican Republic. One hundred are killed and 20,000 are left homeless.
A magnitude 8.0 earthquake struck northern Dominican Republic, causing significant casualties and homelessness.
On August 4, 1946, a powerful 8.0-magnitude earthquake shook the northern region of the Dominican Republic, causing widespread destruction. The tremor leveled homes, schools, and critical infrastructure, especially in coastal towns. Approximately 100 people lost their lives, and around 20,000 residents were left without shelter. Rescue efforts faced obstacles due to damaged roads and disrupted communications. International aid and neighboring countries provided support for relief and reconstruction. The disaster led to reforms in building codes and heightened awareness of seismic risks in the Caribbean nation.
1946
earthquake of magnitude 8.0
Dominican Republic
1974day.year
A bomb explodes in the Italicus Express train at San Benedetto Val di Sambro, Italy, killing 12 people and wounding 22.
A bomb explodes on the Italicus Express train in Italy, killing 12 and wounding 22 near San Benedetto Val di Sambro.
A bomb hidden on the Italicus Express train exploded near San Benedetto Val di Sambro, Italy, on August 4, 1974, killing 12 people and injuring 22 others. The explosion tore through a tunnel in the Apennine Mountains, scattering wreckage over a wide area. No group immediately claimed responsibility, but investigators suspected far-right extremists linked to Italy’s Years of Lead. The attack sent shockwaves through the nation and prompted widespread public outrage. It highlighted vulnerabilities in rail security and led to calls for stronger counterterrorism measures. The Italicus bombing remains one of Italy’s deadliest peacetime terrorist incidents.
1974
bomb
San Benedetto Val di Sambro
1975day.year
The Japanese Red Army takes more than 50 hostages at the AIA Building housing several embassies in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The hostages include the U.S. consul and the Swedish Chargé d'affaires. The gunmen win the release of five imprisoned comrades and fly with them to Libya.
Members of the Japanese Red Army take over 50 hostages in Kuala Lumpur to demand the release of imprisoned comrades, eventually flying to Libya.
On August 4, 1975, members of the Japanese Red Army stormed the AIA Building in Kuala Lumpur, taking over 50 hostages, including the U.S. consul and the Swedish Chargé d’affaires. The militants demanded the release of five imprisoned comrades and safe passage out of Malaysia. After tense negotiations, Malaysian authorities agreed and flew the gunmen and their freed prisoners to Libya. No hostages were killed, though some suffered injuries during the standoff. The incident underscored the transnational reach of militant groups during the 1970s and raised new concerns about embassy security. It also demonstrated the readiness of some states to negotiate under duress to ensure diplomatic safety.
1975
Japanese Red Army
more than 50 hostages
Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia
consul
Chargé d'affaires
Libya
2020day.year
Beirut Port explosion: At least 220 people are killed and over 5,000 are wounded when 2,700 tons of ammonium nitrate explodes in Beirut, Lebanon.
A massive ammonium nitrate explosion at Beirut port kills over 220 and injures thousands.
On 4 August 2020, a catastrophic blast tore through the Port of Beirut when approximately 2,700 tons of ammonium nitrate stored in a warehouse detonated.
The explosion generated a shockwave felt up to 200 kilometers away, leveling buildings and shattering windows across the city.
At least 220 people were killed and more than 5,000 injured, while an estimated 300,000 residents were left homeless.
Investigations revealed the fertilizer had been unsafely stored for years, exacerbating public outrage over government negligence.
The disaster deepened Lebanon’s political and economic crisis, sparking mass protests demanding accountability and reform.
International rescue teams and aid organizations mobilized to assist with search, relief, and reconstruction efforts.
2020
Beirut Port explosion
ammonium nitrate
Beirut, Lebanon