It was over nine decades ago, that French cargo ship the SS Mont-Blanc and the Norwegian ship Imo collided in Halifax Harbour causing an explosion that devastated the city.

The disaster happened 95 years ago today.

Fully-loaded with wartime explosives, at 8:40 a.m. on Dec. 6, 1917, the Mont-Blanc detonated after colliding with the Imo in the part of Halifax Harbour called “The Narrows.” About 25 minutes later, the Mont-Blanc exploded, obliterating buildings and structures within two kilometres of the shore line.

About 2,000 people were killed by debris, fires, and collapsed buildings. About 9,000 more were injured.

Before test explosions of atomic bombs, it was the largest man-made explosion in recorded history.

Coun. Jennifer Watts said a few extra elements are being added to this year’s commemoration events.

“There will be some ringing of church bells on the peninsula, as well as the firing of the canon at Citadel Hill and I believe that will be at 9:05 a.m.,” said Watts who has been calling for more recognition of the anniversary.

The annual service honouring the anniversary of the explosion will be held at Fort Needham from 8:50 to 9:30 a.m.

An 11 a.m. service of remembrance is being held at Pinehill Park in Dartmouth, located at the intersection of Albro Lake Road and Pinecrest Drive.

Starting at 7 a.m., the Nova Scotia Archives began live tweeting the events of the explosion as they unfolded in real time. You can follow along using #hfxexplosion.

More information can be found at halifax.ca/halifaxexplosion.