Lifelong Learners: Superstorm 1950

In November 1950, the greatest storm of the twentieth century crippled the eastern US, affecting more than 100 million people. Sometimes referred to as the Great Appalachian or Thanksgiving storm, this was no ordinary weather event. Its giant size and multiple record-setting hazards—including snow, ice, flooding, wind and cold temperatures—were cataclysmic. This superstorm was the costliest weather-related disaster when it occurred. Only two other storms that affected the US mainland since then, both hurricanes, have exceeded its death toll.

About the Presenter: Dr. David Call is an Associate Professor of Meteorology and Geography at Ball State University. He teaches classes in meteorology and physical geography and conducts research on how society deals with hazardous winter weather. His research has been published in journals such as the “Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society” and “The Professional Geographer.” He is also the author of Superstorm 1950: The Greatest Simultaneous Blizzard, Ice Storm, Windstorm, and Cold Outbreak of the Twentieth Century.

The Association of Lifelong Learners (ALL) is a group of retirees and community members interested in continuing to learn and engage with each other on a variety of educational topics. If you're not already a member, feel free to attend a meeting or two to see what we're about before making the commitment. Find out how to join by visiting us at www.bsu.edu/lifelonglearners