On this date in 1993, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake in the Sea of Japan triggered a large tsunami. Waves up to 90 feet tall swept away people and buildings. While 239 people died, a far more major diaster was avoided due to the Japan Meteorological Agency's timely warnings to residents and businesses.

WEDNESDAY'S WEATHER EXTREMES:
HIGHEST TEMPERATURE (DEGREES F).........................128 Death Valley, Calif.
HIGHEST HEAT INDEX (DEGREES F)..........................128 Goodyear, Ariz.
LOWEST TEMPERATURE (DEGREES F)..........................40 Stanley, Idaho
LOWEST WIND CHILL (DEGREES F)...........................29 St. George, Alaska
HIGHEST WIND GUST (MPH).................................69 Thermopolis, Wyo.
HIGHEST PRECIPITATION (INCHES)..........................4.13 Port Lavaca, Texas