It is the Year of the Tiger, after all.

If you look up predictions about this Chinese zodiac year of the Tiger, you'll find sentences like this: "The year of the Tiger is traditionally associated with massive changes and social upheaval. Therefore, 2010 is very likely to be a volatile one both on the world scene, as well as on a personal level. "

In Tiger years, natural catastrophes frequently happen. The world seems particularly rife with large, incredible, perhaps unfortunate, events. Volcanic eruptions should be expected. Earthquakes should be expected. Just hang onto your hats, folks.