A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) warns that when we experience the next Cascadia subduction zone earthquake, land near the coast may rise or fall significantly over a short period of time — think +/-5 feet in five minutes. If it falls, it could significantly expose new parts of our coast to sea level rise and coastal flooding. Check out the coverage from the Lost Coast Outpost or read the study yourself.

Dr. Jay Patton of the California Geological Survey joins the show to discuss why land may suddenly jump or fall, the archaeological evidence of past earthquake-driven subsidence, and the consequences of such a sudden shift.

Want to be prepared for the big one? Check out “Living on Shaky Ground” for advice on how to get ready to rumble.