The Weather Channel - When Weather Changhe South Poleed History Series 1 (2009) Part 7 Potomac Crash

Throughout time weather has shaped history. NASA, World War II and historic heroic rescue attempts have all been impacted by the weather. This High Definition series from the “Weather Channel” uncovers the most powerful moments in history and the remarkable role played by Mother Nature. Mother Nature can throw a wrench in the best-laid plans, and the incredible disasters captured here prove it beyond a doubt. Was the weather just too cold on the morning of the space shuttle Challenger's launch to support a successful mission? Did dust storms actually devastate a military operation and help to shape a presidency? Discover how weather has affected the Battle of the Bulge in World War II, the 1927 Mississippi flood, the crash of Delta 191, and many more unforgettable moments in history. This most watched high-definition series in the history of The Weather Channel looks at the power of nature and its incredible impact on history. When Weather Changed History explores impactful and exciting moments when the forces of weather intertwine with the forces of human nature to change the course of events. These weather-influenced experiences come from the fields of politics, exploration, the military, sports, entertainment and much more. Watch as The Weather Channel uncovers key moments with insider personal stories that disclose unexpected historical facts, revealing both mankind's heroism and hubris.

Part 7 Potomac Crash

1982 Preparing to fly in a Nor' Easter. Air Florida Flight 90 took off from Washington National Airport in a snowstorm. Seconds into the flight the plane crashed into the icy Potomac River, killing 74 people. In this segment of When Weather Changed History, we learn the thought process that lead to the crash of the Air Florida flight in Washington, D.C. Jan. 13, 1982 Air Florida Flight 90, with 79 people onboard, takes off from Washington National Airport in a snowstorm. Seconds into the flight, the plane crashes into the icy Potomac River, killing 74 people, including four people on the ground. The crash of Flight 90 changes commercial aviation. In the wake of the tragedy, new communication protocols are developed and stricter de-icing guidelines are enacted, making air travel safer.

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