1883 Eruption of Krakatoa

On May 20, 1883, one of the deadliest and most destructive volcano eruptions began on the Indonesian island of Krakatoa.

The peak of destruction would not be seen until three months later, when, on August 27, three enormous explosions took place. The third explosion was the largest and loudest of the three, reported as the loudest sound heard in historical times and could be heard from up to 3,000 miles away. That is, if that eruption were to happen in Los Angeles, people in New York City would have been able to hear it.

The volcano finally settled on October 21, 1883, but not after claiming over 36,000 deaths. It also completely destroyed 165 villages and towns, as well as severely damaging 132 more.