On this day — December 31

This later turned out to be COVID-19, the cause of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Russia.

United Arab Emirates, located near the Burj Khalifa, two hours before the fireworks display is due to commence. Sixteen injuries were reported; one had a heart attack, another suffered a major injury, and fourteen others with minor injuries.

Greater St. Louis, Sunset Hills, Missouri, Illinois, and Oklahoma, with a few tornadoes in the early hours. A total of 36 tornadoes touched down, resulting in the deaths of nine people and $113 million in damages.

the tallest skyscraper at that time in the world, standing at a height of 509 metres (1,670 ft).

Boris Yeltsin, resigns from office, leaving Prime Minister Vladimir Putin as the acting President and successor.

and establishes the value of the euro currency.