Historical October 1990 earthquake supplement. Original predictions, insurance prices and safety guidance are reproduced as period reporting, not current forecasts or instructions.
Here, according to the Post-Dispatch, is Iben Browning’s prediction for an earthquake in our area:
“Within 48 hours on either side of Dec. 3, an earthquake measuring 7.0 or greater on the Richter scale has a 50-50 chance of erupting somewhere in the New Madrid Fault….That means it could happen any time from Dec. 1, a Saturday, through Dec. 5, a Wednesday.”
Browning also said that “precursor quakes may occur on or about Oct. 9 and Nov. 6….If the Dec. 3 quake occurs, Dec. 31 and Jan. 28 are likely aftershock dates….”
Browning added that the 50-50 chance is like the weather forecaster saying there’s a 50-50 chance of rain. “Maybe, but maybe not.”
Original photograph caption
Original October 1990 newspaper box quoting Iben Browning’s forecast. From the earthquake supplement prepared and designed by King Schoenfeld, with assistance from Sue Rothschild, American Red Cross and Farmers Insurance Group. The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, October 1990. Individual artist not credited.
Originally published in The Times of Skinker-DeBaliviere, October 1990.
Read this article in the original newspaper issue.
Archival transcription note: Historical forecast reproduced as a quotation attributed by the newspaper to the Post-Dispatch. It is not a current prediction.
Original source: SD_Times1990_10.pdf, printed page(s) 3; PDF page(s) 3.
