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Today in History: Devastating Hurricane Strikes Galveston, Leaves 275 Dead

8/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On August 17, 1915, a Category 4 hurricane struck Galveston, Texas, resulting in extensive destruction. The storm caused at least 403 fatalities and inflicted approximately $30 million in damages, equivalent to $68 billion today. While the newly built Galveston Seawall reduced damage in the city, unprotected areas suffered severe impacts from a 16.2 ft storm surge.

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Story summary

On August 17, 1915, a Category 4 hurricane struck Galveston, Texas, resulting in extensive destruction. The storm caused at least 403 fatalities and inflicted approximately $30 million in damages, equivalent to $68 billion today. While the newly built Galveston Seawall reduced damage in the city, unprotected areas suffered severe impacts from a 16.2 ft storm surge.