Geologic time is so different from the time that influences our lives. Geologic time refers to long periods of time measured in millions to billions or years in the rock record. However, geologic time can also record events that might be only a few hours or minutes in duration, like a catastrophe. Throughout geologic time, volcanic eruptions have caused ash to mix with snow causing an avalanche of mud. This wall of mud can cascade over towns and bury all forms of live. This event would be recorded in the rock. The bodies of organisms might not be there when uncovered by future generations, but the mud that accumulated will turn into mudstone. You can sometimes accumulate tens of meters of material in less than a day’s work. Time is odd, and it is the job of a geologist to unearth the truth.

Avalanche