Recent Surge in Global Seismic Activity: 3.4 Magnitude Earthquake Reported in New Mexico
A 3.4-magnitude earthquake struck New Mexico on November 21, 2024, with earlier occurrences in California, Papua New Guinea, Mexico, Australia, India, Cuba, Panama, Chile, and Peru indicating an increase in global seismic activity. The USGS is monitoring these events closely as the sequence of earthquakes raises concerns for affected regions.
On November 21, 2024, a 3.4-magnitude earthquake struck New Mexico, with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reporting its center in Alum Rock, at a depth of 7.3 kilometers (approximately 4.5 miles). As the earthquake occurred, only one individual reported feeling it, according to the USGS.
This seismic event followed a 2.7-magnitude earthquake in California on November 19, also reported by the USGS, which was centered in Alum Rock at a depth of 6.4 kilometers (around 4.0 miles). In the days prior, on November 15, a more significant 6.6-magnitude earthquake was documented in Papua New Guinea, located in Kokopo at a depth of 51.9 kilometers (approximately 32.2 miles).
On November 13, another earthquake of magnitude 5.0 was recorded in Santiago Tepextla, Mexico, at a depth of 12.6 kilometers (about 7.9 miles), preceded by a 4.2-magnitude earthquake in Australia. This Australian quake occurred in Denman, at a depth of 11.1 kilometers (approximately 6.9 miles), shortly after an earthquake of magnitude 4.4 hit India on November 12, centered in Gyalshing at a depth of 10 kilometers (about 6.2 miles).
Additionally, a series of earthquakes impacted Cuba, with a 5.9-magnitude tremor occurring one hour before a 6.8-magnitude seismic event, the latter at a depth of 14 kilometers (about 8.7 miles). Earlier in the month, a 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck Panama, centered in Burica at a depth of 10 kilometers (around 6.2 miles), reported two days following a 6.2-magnitude earthquake in Chile on November 8.
This Chilean earthquake, concentrated in Cochrane at 10 kilometers depth (around 6.2 miles), came just after a 5.0-magnitude earthquake in Changuillo, Peru, on November 7. In a closely following sequence, a 4.4-magnitude earthquake was reported in California, centered in Borrego Springs at a depth of 9.8 kilometers (approximately six miles). The sequence of seismic activities includes earlier earthquakes, such as a 4.4-magnitude in Greece on November 5 and a 4.8-magnitude quake in Hawaii shortly thereafter, emphasizing the recent surge in global seismic activity.
The recent pattern of earthquakes highlights an unusual level of seismic activity across various regions, prompting increased monitoring and research by geological experts.
The prevalence of earthquakes globally is a significant concern for scientists and residents in affected regions. Earthquakes can vary greatly in magnitude, impact, and depth, influencing how strongly they are felt and the potential for damage. The United States Geological Survey tracks and reports these seismic events to inform the public and guide disaster preparedness efforts. Understanding the sequences and magnitudes of recent earthquakes provides insight into tectonic activity and its implications for safety and response.
In summary, the 3.4-magnitude earthquake reported in New Mexico on November 21, along with numerous other seismic events in various locations, underscores the rising frequency and variability of earthquakes worldwide. The data from the USGS not only provides essential information on the occurrences but also highlights the importance of ongoing geological monitoring for public safety. This pattern of seismic activity calls for heightened awareness and preparedness in regions prone to earthquakes.
Original Source: www.iheart.com
