Ask the Memphian: Did Memphians really freak out over a strange man’s earthquake prediction?
Members of the media flocked to New Madrid, Missouri for the Iben Browning projected earthquake on Dec. 3, 1990. (James A. Finley/AP Photo file)
While Memphians around him were freaking out, with many expecting the earth to open up and swallow them whole, Dr. Arch Johnston decided to play tennis.
With his background in seismology and vast knowledge of earthquakes as founder of the Center for Earthquake Research and Information at the University of Memphis, Johnston knew there was nothing to worry about on Dec. 3, 1990.
So he packed up his tennis racquets and balls and headed to the U of M courts to face off against another faculty member on a balmy winter’s day where the temperature reached 65 degrees.
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Ask the Memphian Iben Browning Center for Earthquake Research and Information; CERI New Madrid fault Subscriber OnlyThank you for reading The Daily Memphian. Your support is critical.
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Jody Callahan
Jody Callahan graduated with degrees in journalism and economics from what is now known as the University of Memphis. He has covered news in Memphis for more than 25 years.
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