Magnitude 4.8 Earthquake Hits West Texas, Followed by Quake Near Mexico
A preliminary magnitude 4.8 earthquake hit West Texas near Ackerly on Friday, followed by a magnitude 3 quake in Mexico. The US Geological Survey highlights that wastewater disposal plays a major role in induced seismicity, rather than fracking. Other news includes a rise in measles cases and legal issues concerning drug trafficking and abortion care in Texas.
On Friday, a magnitude 4.8 earthquake struck West Texas, approximately 16 miles southwest of Ackerly, Texas, at a depth of 4.2 miles. This seismic event occurred around 12:33 p.m. MT, with Ackerly situated about 62 miles northeast of Midland by road.
Additionally, another earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 3 was recorded shortly before, at around 12:31 p.m. MT. This tremor occurred near the Texas-Mexico border, approximately 33 miles south-southwest of Sierra Blanca, Texas, at a depth of 6.5 miles.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that while many induced earthquakes are not directly attributed to hydraulic fracturing, the recent surge in seismic activities in the central United States primarily results from the disposal of waste fluids linked to oil production.
According to the USGS, “wastewater disposal wells typically operate for longer durations and inject much more fluid than is injected during the hydraulic fracturing process, making them more likely to induce earthquakes.” Furthermore, they noted that the most significant induced earthquake related to hydraulic fracturing in the United States registered a magnitude of 4.0 in 2018 in Texas.
In other news, a rise in measles cases in Texas has resulted in several patients requiring intubation as cases reach 146. Additionally, two members of the Gulf cartel have been extradited to the United States to face drug trafficking allegations in Houston. Also, a study indicates that the Texas abortion ban has delayed care for residents in Colorado, while a government report suggests that tariff threats may adversely impact consumers and the broader US economy.
In summary, a significant seismic event of magnitude 4.8 occurred in West Texas, accompanied by a 3.0 magnitude earthquake near the Texas-Mexico border. The U.S. Geological Survey emphasizes that wastewater disposal is the primary cause of increased seismic activity, rather than hydraulic fracturing itself. In related news, Texas is facing various public health and legal challenges amidst these seismic disturbances.
Original Source: www.lonestarlive.com
