Remembering a tragedy

Talking about Brazil and the affection that the Iranian football fans have for the Brazilian national team reminded me of a tragedy that occurred in Iran during the 1990 World Cup.

On June 20, 1990 a 7.6 Richter earthquake devastated North Western region of Iran. On that day 50,000 people perished.

Even though the absence of proper building codes was recognized as the major contributor to the astonishing loss of life, still the numbers were far higher than anyone had expected. Why so many people were caught in their unsafe houses at that time in the evening?

The answer came shortly after. At the time when the earthquake hit a World Cup game was being broadcasted live, and everyone was at home watching it.

The game was Brazil vs. Scotland.