A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck western Texas on Saturday, the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre ( EMSC) confirmed. It occurred at a shallow depth of 10 kilometres (6.21 miles).
The quake was first recorded at a much stronger 6.5 magnitude, but EMSC later revised it down after further assessment. The independent scientific organisation shared on X that the earthquake struck “about 50 miles west of Pecos” and placed the epicentre “45 miles north-east of Texas’ Van Horn.”
The tremors were widely felt, extending across 200 miles. According to the EMSC, approximately 2 million people in the United States and Mexico experienced the quake.
Earthquake Today: Nearby New Mexico also registers quake
While Texas was reeling, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) noted another tremor not far off. A 5.3 magnitude earthquake hit New Mexico, about 57 kilometres south of Whites City.
Though this quake did not cause immediate alarm, it added to regional unease. The timing and proximity of the two quakes drew concern from locals and authorities alike.
Aftershock advisory issued
Following the Texas quake, EMSC issued a clear warning to residents. In its advisory posted on X, the centre stated, “Unless it is necessary stay away from damaged areas for your safety. Be careful and follow national authorities' information.”
The agency also said aftershocks could continue in the coming hours or even days.
No major damage has been reported so far. However, the warning serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of seismic events in the region.
Stronger quake hits South America
Just a day before the tremors in the US, a more powerful earthquake struck off the southern coasts of Chile and Argentina. The USGS measured it at a magnitude of 7.4.
This quake also occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres and struck between Cape Horn and Antarctica. Several smaller aftershocks followed. Due to the strength of the tremor and its underwater location, Chilean authorities issued a tsunami warning for the southernmost part of the country.
Though the wave threat was later assessed, the initial response showed the seriousness with which seismic activity in the region is now approached.
Both North and South America sit along tectonic plate boundaries, making them hotspots for seismic activity. Western Texas lies along the boundary of the North American Plate, while Chile is part of the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” one of the most earthquake-prone regions in the world.
Experts continue to monitor these areas closely. While not all quakes result in damage or loss, each event brings the potential for disruption—and reminds communities to stay prepared.
The quake was first recorded at a much stronger 6.5 magnitude, but EMSC later revised it down after further assessment. The independent scientific organisation shared on X that the earthquake struck “about 50 miles west of Pecos” and placed the epicentre “45 miles north-east of Texas’ Van Horn.”
The tremors were widely felt, extending across 200 miles. According to the EMSC, approximately 2 million people in the United States and Mexico experienced the quake.
Earthquake Today: Nearby New Mexico also registers quake
While Texas was reeling, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) noted another tremor not far off. A 5.3 magnitude earthquake hit New Mexico, about 57 kilometres south of Whites City.
Though this quake did not cause immediate alarm, it added to regional unease. The timing and proximity of the two quakes drew concern from locals and authorities alike.
Aftershock advisory issued
Following the Texas quake, EMSC issued a clear warning to residents. In its advisory posted on X, the centre stated, “Unless it is necessary stay away from damaged areas for your safety. Be careful and follow national authorities' information.”
The agency also said aftershocks could continue in the coming hours or even days.
No major damage has been reported so far. However, the warning serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of seismic events in the region.
Stronger quake hits South America
Just a day before the tremors in the US, a more powerful earthquake struck off the southern coasts of Chile and Argentina. The USGS measured it at a magnitude of 7.4.
This quake also occurred at a depth of 10 kilometres and struck between Cape Horn and Antarctica. Several smaller aftershocks followed. Due to the strength of the tremor and its underwater location, Chilean authorities issued a tsunami warning for the southernmost part of the country.
Though the wave threat was later assessed, the initial response showed the seriousness with which seismic activity in the region is now approached.
Both North and South America sit along tectonic plate boundaries, making them hotspots for seismic activity. Western Texas lies along the boundary of the North American Plate, while Chile is part of the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” one of the most earthquake-prone regions in the world.
Experts continue to monitor these areas closely. While not all quakes result in damage or loss, each event brings the potential for disruption—and reminds communities to stay prepared.
You may also like
Potatoes will be 'golden brown' outside and 'unbelievably soft' inside with 1 method
I went to my first British barbecue - this country has got it all wrong
Make the creamiest pasta sauce with no pots or pans and just 5 simple ingredients
Historical UK city named worst place for a short break despite 'amazing' cathedral
Baggage handler names the type of suitcase least likely to be damaged while travelling
