In 2009, American geologist Adrian Helmsley learns that neutrinos from a massive solar flare are causing the temperature of the Earth's core to rapidly increase. In 2010, U.S. President Thomas Wilson and other international leaders begin a secret project to ensure humanity's survival.Building nine enormous arks, capable of carrying 100,000 people each. In 2012, Jackson takes Noah and Lilly camping in Yellowstone National Park. When they find an area fenced off by the U.S. Army, Jackson takes his kids over the fence; they are caught and taken to see Helmsley. After being released from military custody, they meet Charlie Frost, who hosts a radio show from the park. Jackson returns home to rescue his family just as a 10.9 magnitude earthquake hits California. They escape from Los Angeles in a private plane as the Earth crust displacement begins and a major portion of California collapses and sinks into the Pacific Ocean. Megatsunamis destroy coastal areas, including Washington, D.C, killing everyone in its vicinity. When the group arrive in China They stow away on Ark 4. An impact driver becomes lodged in the gears of the ark's hydraulic doors, Jackson and Noah dislodge the impact driver and the crew regains control of the ark before it collides with Mount Everest. Jackson reunites with his family, and he and Kate reconcile.