URGENT UPDATE: The Seismological Society of America is reaching out to the public for firsthand accounts of unusual phenomena associated with earthquakes. This initiative, led by Lori Dengler, an emeritus professor of geology at Cal Poly Humboldt, aims to compile stories of “earthquake oddities” ahead of their annual meeting next spring.
Reports of strange lights, sounds, and other anomalies during seismic events are less understood but could hold vital information for researchers. If you’ve witnessed anything unusual during an earthquake, your story is needed now. Time is of the essence—share your experiences to contribute to groundbreaking research.
Among the phenomena are earthquake lights, which some have described as glowing skies or sudden flashes. These lights were notably reported during the 1992 Cape Mendocino earthquakes, where witnesses saw bright blue and green glows accompanying aftershocks in the early morning hours of April 26, 1992. Many of these observations came from remote areas, where electrical disturbances were unlikely to be the cause.
“I’ve heard of strange smells before, during, or after quakes, headaches, wells suddenly going dry or overflowing, and rivers flowing backwards,” said Dengler.
Another compelling case from 1992 involved a fisherman who reported his boat surrounded by glowing water after experiencing the aftershocks. This glowing effect, known as bioluminescence, could have been triggered by seismic vibrations affecting marine organisms.
Even the ground itself has shown peculiar behaviors. Observers of the M7.0 Mendocino fault earthquake in 2023 noted trees swaying but did not report visible ground roll. In contrast, many individuals described the ground rolling like ocean waves during the M6.9 Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989. These firsthand accounts are critical for understanding the effects of different types of seismic activity.
Dengler emphasizes the need to take these observations seriously, as they could unlock mysteries surrounding seismic phenomena. “It’s time to take a closer look,” she stated, urging the community to come forward with their experiences.
For those who have witnessed these oddities or others not mentioned, your voice is crucial. You can share your stories by calling 707-826-6019 or emailing [email protected]. Your contributions can significantly impact the ongoing research into the unpredictable nature of earthquakes.
This call to action not only seeks to enrich scientific understanding but also fosters community engagement and resilience in the face of natural disasters. As earthquakes continue to be a reality for many, sharing these experiences could help save lives and better prepare communities for future events.
Don’t wait—your story could be the key to unlocking the mysteries of seismic events. Reach out now!
