December 13

On December 13, 1758, the Duke William, carrying Acadian exiles from Nova Scotia, foundered in a winter storm. Cruising through treacherous seas, the ship was overwhelmed by high waves and gale-force winds. Of the approximately 380 passengers and crew, only 15 survived the sinking. The tragedy is remembered as one of the worst maritime disasters of the era. The loss deeply impacted Acadian communities, many of whom had been displaced by British authorities. Artifacts and memorials today honor those who perished during the deportation voyage.

On December 13, 1957, a powerful magnitude 6.5 earthquake jolted the mountainous Farsinaj region in western Iran. The tremors reached a maximum Mercalli intensity of VII, causing widespread panic and structural damage. At least 1,119 people lost their lives, and more than five thousand homes were destroyed or severely damaged. Villages were flattened, leaving survivors exposed to harsh winter conditions and in dire need of shelter and medical assistance. The Iranian government and international relief organizations mobilized quickly, delivering emergency supplies and rebuilding efforts. The disaster highlighted the need for improved seismic preparedness and building standards in the region. Memorials in Farsinaj commemorate the victims and remind local communities of the earthquake’s lasting impact.

On December 13, 1977, Air Indiana Flight 216, a DC-3 aircraft, crashed while on approach to Evansville Regional Airport. The flight was carrying the University of Evansville basketball team, coaches, support staff, and boosters. Adverse weather and ice accumulation contributed to the aircraft's loss of control shortly before landing. All 29 passengers and crew perished in the disaster, shocking the sports world. The crash led to improved de-icing procedures and stricter safety regulations for commuter flights.

On December 13, 1982, a 6.0-magnitude earthquake hit southwestern Yemen with a maximum Mercalli intensity of VIII (Severe). The tremor destroyed villages, collapsed homes, and triggered landslides in mountainous regions. An estimated 2,800 people lost their lives and 1,500 were injured amid scarce medical resources. Rescue operations were hampered by poor infrastructure and remote terrain. The disaster prompted international aid efforts and highlighted the need for improved seismic preparedness in the region.

Flight 3379, a regional turboprop, encountered difficulties on approach to Raleigh–Durham International Airport in adverse weather conditions. The aircraft lost altitude and control, crashing into wooded terrain near Morrisville. All 15 occupants, including passengers and crew, were killed instantly. The tragedy prompted an extensive NTSB investigation into aircraft performance and weather-avoidance procedures. Findings led to updates in pilot training programs and reinforced safety protocols for regional carriers. The accident remains a grim reminder of the risks faced by smaller commuter flights under challenging conditions.

Operated by a Romanian airline, Flight 166 had been converted from cargo to carry passengers. Shortly after departing Verona Villafranca Airport, the plane suffered engine failure and began to lose altitude. It crashed into a nearby residential area in Sommacampagna, leading to the deaths of all 49 on board. The accident prompted investigations into maintenance procedures and engine reliability. Italian aviation authorities reviewed safety standards for cargo-to-passenger conversions. The tragedy highlighted the critical importance of strict oversight in aircraft modifications and maintenance.