The 7.9 Scenario

Press Release

Press Release: March 23, 2004

Hot Springs, AR - The Garland County Library received today a copy of the novel Memphis 7.9 signed by Sam Penny. Penny is the author of The 7.9 Scenario series that describes what happens to the United States when a great earthquake strikes on the New Madrid Fault, 160 miles east of Hot Springs, as it did in 1811 and 1812.

"The question that should be asked is what happens to our cities, our land, and our society when, not if, a great earthquake once again fractures the New Madrid Fault in the central United States," Penny says. "Seismologists agree such an event is inevitable, and though they disagree on the timing, they estimate there is a 7 to 10% chance it will happen sometime within the next 50 years. It could happen next week." Memphis 7.9, the first book in The 7.9 Scenario. Through the eyes of those who are there, it tells of attempts to predict the earthquake and of the effects across the country when the earthquake happens. Penny adds, "Most people do not realize the extent of the catastrophe that will happen."

John Wells, spokesperson for Garland County Library, says, "We are pleased to make Mr. Penny's book available in the library. It gives us the opportunity to introduce an exciting new book to our reading public and to stimulate discussion of what such a seismic event would mean to Hot Springs and the state of Arkansas."

Penny continues, "USGS and FEMA studies indicate that Garland County would feel shaking at an intensity level of V to VI from a 7.9 magnitude event, sufficient for it to be felt by everyone, even if they are asleep. Many would be frightened and run outdoors. There would be instances of fallen plaster and damaged chimneys, but in general, the damage would be minor except in the older brick structures in the historic section. Hot Springs could expect a small number of fatalities and a dozen or more serious injuries."

"On the other hand, Little Rock in Pulaski County could suffer several hundred injuries and fatalities numbering up to one hundred. The damage in the eastern part of the state and in Memphis would be catastrophic."

Garland County Library, serving an area of 83,000 residents, has a collection of 112,000 books and periodicals; in addition, there are 4,600 CDs, records, cassettes and other audio materials, as well as 8,000 video items, such as DVDs and VHS tapes. Internet terminals are available for use by the general public.

Staffing consists of 32 employees, including two fully accredited librarians, plus volunteers. The system comprises one central library and one bookmobile. Patrons make 450,000 visits annually, and check out materials 534,000 times.

The 7.9 Scenario is a series of four novels scheduled for publication in 2003 through 2005. Visit Sam Penny's website for information about the book series and more facts about earthquakes on the New Madrid Fault.