A magnitude 5.3 earthquake struck West Texas on Saturday night, rattling the sparsely populated region near the New Mexico border. The quake, which hit at 7:47 p.m. local time, was centered about 35 miles south of Whites City, New Mexico, and approximately midway between Midland and El Paso, Texas. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake’s epicenter was nearly four miles below the surface.
Fortunately, due to the low population density of the area, the USGS reported little to no impact on residents. The risk of ground failure, landslides, or liquefaction was deemed low. However, this significant quake was part of a larger seismic swarm; the USGS recorded 46 smaller earthquakes in the same region since early April. There is a notable 65% chance of a strong aftershock within the following week, a warning for residents to remain vigilant.
The 5.3 magnitude quake was the strongest of three noticeable tremors that night. NBC affiliate KTSM in El Paso, over 100 miles west of the epicenter, reported on two additional, albeit smaller, earthquakes with magnitudes of 3.4 and 2.9. Despite the significant shaking, there have been no reported injuries. The USGS’s ‘Did You Feel It?’ map registered responses from several Texas cities, including Arlington, Midland, and Lubbock, highlighting the quake’s wide reach.
This event serves as a reminder of the geological activity present even in seemingly quiet regions. The sparsely populated nature of West Texas minimized the immediate impact, but the potential for further seismic activity warrants ongoing monitoring and preparedness. Authorities continue to assess the situation and ensure the safety of residents.
