November 16
2008
2008 Sulawesi earthquake
On November 16, 2008, a Mw 7.4 earthquake struck offshore the northern coast of Sulawesi, Indonesia. The shock — centered in the Celebes Sea near Gorontalo and felt across neighboring islands — produced strong coastal shaking, a brief tsunami threat with small local sea-level disturbances, and localized damage and loss of life in seaside communities. The event reinforced continuing efforts at tsunami warning and local preparedness after the 2004 disaster. Read more
1983
1983 Kaʻōiki earthquake
On November 16, 1983, a powerful crustal earthquake struck near Kaʻōiki on the southeast slope of the Island of Hawaiʻi. Commonly reported as about Mw 6.7, the quake produced strong shaking, rockfalls, and localized damage to roads, water systems, and older masonry structures. There were no widely confirmed fatalities; injuries were limited. The event sharpened scientific attention on the island’s complex mix of volcanic and tectonic forces and pushed forward improvements in monitoring, emergency planning, and building resilience. Read more
1959
National Airlines Flight 967 disappearance (1959)
On the night of November 16, 1959, a Douglas DC‑7B operating National Airlines Flight 967 vanished over the central Gulf of Mexico after departing Tampa for New Orleans. Searchers recovered only small floating wreckage; investigators considered an in‑flight explosion a possible explanation but could not reach a definitive cause. The loss remains an unsolved, haunting example of the challenges of mid‑century over‑water air disasters. Read more
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