On this date in 1900, the deadliest natural disaster in United States history occurred when a terrible category 4 hurricane struck Galveston, Texas. Because weather forecasting was still in its infancy, there was little warning for coastal residents. In fact, many of them flocked to the beach to admire the heavy surf and cooling breezes during the hot day and evening. The massive storm surge that struck at about 8 p.m. swept thousands of people out to sea. Ultimately, and estimated 8,000 lives were lost.