Human-induced M5.3 earthquake, series of aftershocks hit western Texas, U.S.

Human-induced M5.3 earthquake, series of aftershocks hit western Texas, U.S.

A shallow earthquake, registered by the USGS as M5.3, hit western Texas at 21:32 UTC on November 16, 2022. The agency is reporting a depth of 8.3 km (5.1 miles). The quake was followed by a series of aftershocks, with magnitudes ranging from 2.6 to 4.1.

North Texas earthquakes occurring on faults not active for 300 million years

North Texas earthquakes occurring on faults not active for 300 million years

Study by Beatrice Magnani, USGS and other SMU scientists shows recent seismicity in Fort Worth Basin occurred on faults not active for 300 million years. The study indicates reactivation of long-dormant faults as a consequence of waste fluid injection. Recent…

Yes, humans really are causing earthquakes

Yes, humans really are causing earthquakes

The central United States is experiencing an unprecedented surge in earthquakes that began in 2009, rising from an average of 21 magnitude 3 and larger quakes to over 650 in 2014 alone. This increased earthquake activity is found in just a few concentrated regions…