In a remarkable display of devotion and enthusiasm, Taylor Swift fans, affectionately known as Swifties, have catapulted the pop superstar’s “Eras” tour into a record-breaking era. During her two sold-out nights at Lumen Field in Seattle, the fans’ energetic dancing and unrestrained excitement caused seismic activity equivalent to a 2.3 magnitude earthquake, as reported by seismologist Jackie Caplan-Auerbach.
Drawing comparisons to the famous 2011 “Beast Quake,” which occurred when Seattle Seahawks fans erupted after an awe-inspiring touchdown by Marshawn “Beast Mode” Lynch, the Swifties’ impact on the seismometer was just as significant. Caplan-Auerbach, a geology professor at Western Washington University, noticed the striking similarity between the two events and analyzed the data from both concerts, revealing almost identical patterns.
Although the “Swift Quake” and “Beast Quake” had a mere 0.3 difference in magnitude, the Swifties’ shaking was twice as strong, underlining their unparalleled dedication to their beloved artist. Caplan-Auerbach explained that the prolonged duration of shaking during the concert, driven by the rhythmic energy of the music, speakers, and beats, contributed to this astounding seismic response.
Chloe Melas, a CNN correspondent who attended one of Swift’s Seattle concerts, shared her firsthand experience as a concertgoer, describing how the ground seemed to tremble beneath their feet, leaving her ears still ringing days later. Even Taylor Swift herself acknowledged the incredible energy of her West Coast Swifties, expressing gratitude on Instagram for their overwhelming support.
As Swift’s “Eras” tour approaches its domestic conclusion, the singer’s impact has extended far beyond her musical performances. She has been credited with boosting local economies in the cities she visited and breaking attendance records, most notably in Pittsburgh.
Swift’s tour continues its triumphant journey with upcoming stops in Santa Clara, Northern California, and a six-show run in Los Angeles. But her global reach knows no bounds, as she is set to embark on the international leg of her tour with a show in Mexico City on August 24.
For seismologist, Jackie Caplan-Auerbach, the experience has not only been awe-inspiring but also an opportunity to showcase the wonder of science in everyday occurrences. Her observations demonstrate that science need not be confined to laboratories; it can be witnessed and understood through ordinary experiences.
