Earthquakes have always been a part of the history of northwest Washington, yet many residents today are unaware of the past and the significant risk that exists in our region.  From coastal megaquakes that result in tsunamis and massive land subsidence to events that reshape the land or collapse parts of Pioneer Square in Seattle, residents can expect to experience an earthquake of one sort or another during their lifetime.  Seismologist Mouse Reusch reviews the seismic history of the region, including which historical records give us that information, and considers what goes into estimating the chances for the next "Big One" to hit.   

Mouse Reusch is a seismologist at the Pacific Northwest Seismic Network (PNSN) at the University of Washington.  In her PhD work at Penn State, she installed seismic stations in faraway lands: Reusch has worked in Africa, Antarctica, Asia, South America, and various US states. Currently, she is a project manager at PNSN and is working on locating, permitting, and installing nearly 300 new seismic stations in Washington for the ShakeAlert Earthquake Early Warning program. 

Enjoy 15% off your hotel stay on History Pub nights! Show your ticket at check-in.

These events are open to everyone interested in Pacific Northwest history, and beyond! Often co-sponsored by local or state historical and civic organizations, we bring you experts, scholars, first-person experiencers, historians and documentaries expounding on topics from indigenous history to the birth of Portland, early explorers to hop growing, and on and on! It's like being back in the classroom - except this time you get to settle into comfortable seats and enjoy a drink or two with dinner while you listen and learn.

This event is eligible for a History Pub Stamp