An American radio preacher is predicting that Biblical prophecies regarding the end of the world will start coming true in a few days.  His warning has provoked bemusement and ridicule as his followers crisscross the country warning of the Apocalypse.  But Bible scholars say doomsday scenarios are deeply rooted in Americans' religious beliefs.

The message is being broadcast on Family Radio, a network of stations in the United States and abroad led by 89-year-old Harold Camping.  He is not an ordained minister and is not associated with a church.  But he says he has studied the Bible and says the Final Judgment will begin with an earthquake on Saturday, May 21.