URGENT UPDATE: Researchers are seeking your stories about strange phenomena associated with earthquakes as they prepare for the Seismological Society of America’s annual meeting next spring. Lori Dengler, an expert from Cal Poly Humboldt, is calling for eyewitness accounts of what she terms “earthquake oddities,” aiming to shed light on phenomena that remain poorly understood.
This is not just a casual inquiry; it’s a vital part of a session dedicated to ‘Intriguing Seismic Observations,’ scheduled for next spring. If you’ve experienced anything unusual during or after an earthquake, your insights could directly impact ongoing research and understanding.
Dengler highlights one particularly fascinating phenomenon: earthquake lights. These eerie glowing skies and unusual bursts of light, reported during seismic events, have intrigued scientists for years. The April 26, 1992, Cape Mendocino earthquakes saw a surge in reports of lights following strong aftershocks, with some witnesses describing flashes that resembled camera bulbs going off.
What causes these lights? Scientists speculate that P-waves, the seismic waves generated by earthquakes, may excite electrical phenomena in the atmosphere. This is supported by satellite reports detecting disturbances in the ionosphere immediately following major earthquakes, which can disrupt communications over vast distances.
Dengler also emphasizes the need to investigate the phenomenon of ground rolling. In the 1992 quake, many observers reported seeing the ground move like waves on the ocean—a rare sight that has sparked renewed interest in how seismic activity manifests visually. Past reports suggest that ground roll might correlate with specific types of faulting, particularly thrust faults, lending credence to the hypothesis that the faulting nature influences these observations.
Additionally, Dengler noted that other unusual sensory experiences, such as strange sounds and smells, are frequently reported during earthquakes. Many individuals describe hearing a low roar, reminiscent of an approaching train, while others experience dizziness, nausea, or even bizarre occurrences like rivers flowing backward.
CALL TO ACTION: If you have witnessed any of these phenomena or have other stories to share, please reach out to Lori Dengler via phone at 707-826-6019 or email at [email protected]. Your contributions could play a crucial role in understanding these seismic mysteries.
This urgent call for information is not just a scientific endeavor; it’s a chance for individuals to share their unique experiences and potentially influence future earthquake research. Don’t miss the opportunity to contribute to this fascinating field!
