Bad Omens.

The article focuses on the widespread panic in Europe in 1524 caused by astrologers' predictions of a catastrophic flood linked to planetary conjunctions in Pisces. These forecasts, originating from astronomer Johann Stöffler and amplified by various astrologers, led to extensive preparations across cities like London, Rome, and Vienna, and generated over 150 pamphlets, making it an early example of mass media influence. Despite the high public anxiety and some local flooding, the predicted deluge did not occur, leading to criticism of astrology, though astrologers defended their discipline by attributing errors to individual misinterpretations rather than the practice itself. The episode illustrates the complex relationship between astrology, public expectation, and scientific authority in early modern Europe.