On Wednesday, November 20, West Texas shook as it was struck by a 5.4 magnitude earthquake. This is the second such earthquake to hit the region in the past month, further heightening the fear and concern of the local population.
The quake was centered around 20 miles northwest of Marathon, a small town in Brewster County, along the border with Mexico. The quake occurred at a depth of about five miles below the surface, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. It was felt as far as 200 miles away, as far north as Dallas.
This quake follows a similar 5.4 magnitude earthquake that hit the area on October 16. While neither of these earthquakes were incredibly dangerous and no significant damage or injuries have been reported, the fact that the region has been hit with two such quakes in such a short period of time is cause enough for worry.
This area has a long history of earthquakes and is located in an active seismic zone. That said, quakes of this magnitude don’t typically occur in the region, and the fact that it has happened twice in a month is a cause for great concern.
Due to the possibility of further seismic activity, the State of Texas and the local governments have issued warnings and advisories to the people of West Texas. They have asked residents to be prepared, stock up on food, water, and other emergency supplies in case the seismic activity continues and worse earthquakes hit the region.
Ultimately, it is not yet clear why this region has been hit with two such earthquakes in such a short period of time. Scientists are still researching the issue and attempting to determine the cause of the recent activity. Until then, the people of West Texas will remain vigilant in the face of these seismic events and prepare for the worst.
