A 5.0-magnitude earthquake struck West Texas on Friday morning, sending aftershocks as far as the Dallas-Fort Worth area. The earthquake occurred around 9:30 a.m. in Scurry County, roughly 200 miles west of Fort Worth. This seismic event follows a 4.9-magnitude earthquake that hit the same region earlier in the week. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the tremors were felt as far away as Durant, Oklahoma, and Georgetown, Texas.

Details of the Recent Earthquake

Scurry County, with a population of approximately 16,686, experienced the 5.0-magnitude quake with no reported damages or injuries. The tremors from this earthquake reached significant distances, impacting areas well beyond the immediate vicinity of the epicenter. The USGS reported that the seismic waves extended to places such as Durant, Oklahoma, and Georgetown, Texas, illustrating the quake’s broad impact.

Series of Earthquakes This Week

Earlier in the week, on Monday night, a 4.9-magnitude earthquake shook West Texas, with aftershocks felt from Amarillo in the north to Austin in the south. This earthquake occurred around 10:30 p.m. in Fisher County, about 200 miles west of Fort Worth, with the epicenter located eight miles northeast of Hermleigh, west of Abilene. Despite the considerable distance from North Texas, aftershocks of around 3.1 magnitude were noticeable. In addition to the primary earthquake, two smaller earthquakes occurred nearby, measuring 3.1 and 4.4 in magnitude. Fisher County, home to about 3,622 residents, also reported no damages or injuries from these seismic events.

Earthquake Activity in Texas

Earthquakes are not uncommon in Texas, particularly in the western and southern regions of the state. The last notable earthquakes in North Texas occurred in May when Johnson County near Mansfield experienced two quakes rated at 3.0 and 3.2 magnitudes. The TexNet Earthquake Catalog indicates that most of Texas’ seismic activity this year has been concentrated near Odessa in the west and outside San Antonio in the south.

The recent seismic events in Scurry and Fisher counties highlight the ongoing earthquake activity in West Texas. While no damages or injuries have been reported from the recent quakes, the tremors’ widespread reach underscores the importance of monitoring and preparing for such natural events. As Texas continues to experience seismic activity, understanding the patterns and potential impacts of these earthquakes remains crucial for the safety and preparedness of its residents.