The '94 tornadoes were incredibly well done. A true Umbrella that helps push already great stories forward. The Gloria/Adam, Janet/Kendal were highlights, and Tad's dream sequence, of course. I agree, the direction was top-notch. I remember Francesca James saying how the special effects were a first for Daytime at this time.
@alwaysAMC I know it's controversial to say, but I think having Erica be M.I.A. during this big event was a plus for me. It showed how healthy the show was outside of Erica/Susan Lucci and as a show in general. Like you, I loved the 2006 Mardi Gras ball too.