10 April 2010: A Day of Multiple Disasters
On April 10, 2010, a series of catastrophic events occurred around the world, making it a day of multiple disasters.
Polish Air Force Tu-154 Crash
Early in the morning, a Polish Air Force Tu-154M aircraft crashed near Smolensk, Russia, killing all 96 people on board. The plane was carrying the President of Poland, Lech Kaczyński, and many other high-ranking government officials. The crash occurred in thick fog as the plane attempted to land at Smolensk North Airport.
Volcanic Eruption in Iceland
Later that day, the Eyjafjallajökull volcano in Iceland erupted, spewing massive amounts of ash and gas into the atmosphere. The eruption forced the closure of airspace over much of Europe, disrupting air travel and affecting millions of people.
Mine Explosion in West Virginia
In the United States, an explosion occurred at the Upper Big Branch Mine in Montcoal, West Virginia. The blast killed 29 miners, making it one of the worst mining disasters in recent American history.
Other Incidents
Also on April 10, 2010, a number of other incidents occurred, including a train derailment in Connecticut, a bus crash in India, and a ship collision off the coast of South Korea.
A Day of Multiple Disasters
The concentration of these disasters on a single day is a rare occurrence, and it marked a somber moment in world history. The events of April 10, 2010, will be remembered for years to come as a day of unprecedented tragedy and loss.
