An Aberdeen professor hopes to “shake up” the facts behind the prediction of earthquakes tonight.
Professor Nicholas Rawlinson, chairman of geophysics at Aberdeen University, will explore popular beliefs about the tremors and their forecast patterns.
During a talk in Aberdeen, the geo-scientist will discuss the challenges of foretelling of microseisms and who the blame turns to in unforeseen circumstances.
Prof Rawlinson’s research follows the 2012 conviction of scientists in Italy for failing to anticipate a disaster in 2009.
Six researchers and a former government official were sentenced for manslaughter after the quake hit L’Aquila in the south of the country, leaving 26 dead and causing widespread damage.
Prof Rawlinson said: “Earthquakes are responsible for more death and destruction than just about any other natural disaster, yet in the minds of most people and despite massive expenditure on research they still defy prediction by scientists.
“I will present some recent research on this fascinating yet divisive issue, explore the challenges of predicting seismic activity and ask who’s to blame when the unexpected happens.”
The free event will take place tonight at 7pm in Waterstones on Union Street.