Study Debunks Viral Nuclear Test Claims About 2024 Iran Earthquake
Johns Hopkins researchers confirm the October 2024 earthquake in Iran was a natural tectonic event, countering widespread misinformation and disinformation.
- A Johns Hopkins University study determined the October 5, 2024, 4.5 magnitude earthquake near Semnan, Iran, was caused by natural tectonic activity, not a nuclear test.
- The earthquake occurred along a reverse fault, consistent with the collision of the Arabian and Eurasian tectonic plates in a seismically active region.
- False claims linking the earthquake to a covert nuclear test spread rapidly on social media within minutes, fueled by misinterpreted data and disinformation campaigns.
- Researchers noted that some posts promoting the nuclear test theory appeared to involve sophisticated but false seismic analysis, potentially linked to deliberate disinformation efforts.
- The study recommends rapid-response collaborations between seismologists and social media platforms to counter misinformation and amplify verified scientific information.
Study Finds 
The Debrief 