Historical Events tagged with "edmonton"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Sports & Recreation

Gretzky Becomes NHL's All-Time Points Leader

October 15th, 1989 35 years ago

Wayne Gretzky surpassed Gordie Howe to become the all-time leading points scorer in NHL history during a game against the Los Angeles Kings. This achievement solidified Gretzky's status as one of the greatest hockey players of all time. Playing in front of a home crowd at the Great Western Forum in Inglewood, California, he scored the record-breaking point with an assist during a goal. This moment captivated fans and marked a significant milestone in his illustrious career.

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Natural Disasters

Edmonton Tornado Claims 27 Lives

July 31st, 1987 37 years ago

A devastating tornado struck Edmonton, Alberta, claiming the lives of 27 individuals. This natural disaster occurred in the evening and resulted in widespread destruction across several neighborhoods. The tornado developed rapidly, catching many residents off guard as they began their evening routines. Emergency services faced significant challenges due to the extent of the damage and the number of injuries reported. Recovery efforts began immediately as communities came together to support those affected.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Mindbender Roller Coaster Incident in Edmonton

June 14th, 1986 38 years ago

The Mindbender, a popular roller coaster at Fantasyland in the West Edmonton Mall, derailed during operation, leading to the deaths of three riders. This incident shocked visitors and raised safety concerns regarding amusement park rides. Emergency services responded swiftly, while investigative authorities began assessing the cause of the derailment amid widespread media coverage.

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Natural Disasters

Severe Flooding of North Saskatchewan River

June 29th, 1915 109 years ago

In 1915, the North Saskatchewan River flooded, causing extensive damage to Edmonton. Heavy rainfall and melting snow contributed to the river's surge, leading to unprecedented water levels. The flood forced many families from their homes, inundating neighborhoods as the river overflowed its banks. Infrastructure was dramatically affected, with bridges and roads rendered impassable, impacting the daily lives of inhabitants. Emergency services were overwhelmed as the city faced a crisis, leading to long-lasting changes in urban planning and flood management strategies.

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