Chris and Amy dive into the infamous 1990 earthquake scare sparked by Iben Browning’s prediction of a catastrophic event along the New Madrid fault. Dr. Michael Wysession, a leading seismologist, recounts the hysteria surrounding the prediction, debunks Browning's claims, and sheds light on the historical context of the New Madrid earthquakes of 1811-1812.
Dr. Wysession discusses the unpredictability of earthquakes, the science behind seismic activity in the Midwest, and why St. Louis remains at minimal risk. The conversation also explores the public panic caused by the prediction, including earthquake drills in schools and widespread financial losses.