Observations hidden in popular myths

Geologists realise that there's factual information in some of the oldest traditions and stories. Many of the tales can provide insight into what might have happened thousands of years ago when the ice sheets melted and give us an understanding that may save lives in the future.

Researchers that set out to find actual events or people behind popular myths are known as geomythologists. These ancient stories are seen as possible observations of phenomena by pre-literate people.