April 27
Apr 27
The 2011 Super Outbreak
The 2011 Super Outbreak was one of the most devastating tornado outbreaks in U.S. history, occurring over four days in April and leaving a path of destruction across the Southern, Midwestern, and Eastern United States, with Alabama facing the most severe impacts.
Apr 27
1993 Zambia National Football Team Plane Crash
On April 27, 1993, the Zambia national football team—nicknamed the “Chipolopolo”—perished when their military plane crashed into the Atlantic Ocean off the Gabonese coast near Libreville. All 30 onboard died, including 18 players, coaches, staff, and crew. The disaster devastated Zambian football, spurred national mourning, and led to enduring changes in air travel policy and aviation safety across Africa.
Apr 27
Willow Island Disaster
On April 27, 1978, a massive scaffold collapse at the Pleasants Power Station in Willow Island, West Virginia, killed 51 construction workers, making it the deadliest construction accident in U.S. history at the time. The tragedy exposed critical flaws in safety oversight, changed construction practices, and left a lasting mark on both regulatory policy and local communities.
Stay in the Loop!
Become a Calamity Insider and get exclusive Calamity Calendar updates delivered straight to your inbox.
Thanks! You're now subscribed.