1362    A storm tide in the North Sea destroys the German city of Rungholt on the island of Strand.

1570    A tidal wave in the North Sea devastates the coast from Holland to Jutland, killing more than 1,000 people.

1980    The Norwegian oil platform Alexander L. Kielland collapses in the North Sea, killing 123 of its crew of 212.

1988    The Piper Alpha drilling platform in the North Sea is destroyed by explosions and fires. 167 oil workers are killed, making it the world's worst offshore oil disaster.

1995    The Draupner wave in the North Sea in Norway is detected, confirming the existence of freak waves.