United States
On September 8, 1900, a powerful hurricane struck Galveston, Texas, with winds estimated at 130 to 145 miles per hour and a devastating storm surge. The storm destroyed much of the city’s infrastructure and homes. An estimated 6,000 to 12,000 people died, making it the deadliest natural disaster in U.S. history. The catastrophe led to major changes in Galveston, including construction of a seawall and elevation of the island’s grade. It also shifted regional economic activity toward Houston, which became the dominant port in the area.
