The article presents an analysis of functional behavior in case of a disaster. To the few hundred people directly involved, the tornado spelled tragedy. But for many of the remaining million residents of the Kansas City Metropolitan Area it spelled excitement and entertainment. To the sociological observer, viewing the event as collective behavior, several latent functions of disaster appear. it is suggested here that the storm which descended upon the fringe of the city appeared to provide thousands of spring-fever stricken citizens with recreation, occupation, relaxation, and a sense of fulfillment, the kind of collective excitement which offers a welcome respite from the monotonous routine of urban living. The unanticipated and frequently unrecognized consequences of a disaster need not be dysfunctional from the perspective of all of the groups concerned. It is suggested below that there may be important latent functions of a disaster. For example, it would be difficult for anyone to admit to himself that he could find pleasure in the tragedy of others although this is apparently what happened.