Ackerly Earthquake Causes Tremors in San Angelo
San Angelo, TX - A magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck near the town of Ackerly, Texas, early Friday morning, sending tremors that were felt as far away as San Angelo. The earthquake, which occurred at approximately 4:30 AM, is the strongest earthquake to hit the region in recent years.
Tremors Felt in San Angelo
Residents of San Angelo reported feeling the ground shake and their houses tremble. While the earthquake was centered over 100 miles away, its strength and shallow depth, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, allowed the vibrations to be felt across the region.
"I woke up to my house shaking," said San Angelo resident, Sarah Jones. "It was pretty scary, but thankfully nothing was damaged."
No Major Damage Reported
Thankfully, there have been no reports of major damage from the earthquake in San Angelo. However, the tremors did cause some minor disturbances, including fallen objects and power outages in some areas.
Seismic Activity in the Permian Basin
The earthquake near Ackerly is the latest in a series of seismic events in the Permian Basin region. While this area is not known for frequent earthquakes, recent increases in oil and gas drilling activity have been linked to increased seismic activity in the area.
"The link between fracking and earthquakes is a complex one," said Dr. Emily Carter, a seismologist at Texas Tech University. "More research is needed to fully understand the relationship."
Staying Safe During Earthquakes
In the event of an earthquake, it is important to take steps to stay safe:
- Drop, Cover, and Hold On: During an earthquake, drop to the ground, cover your head and neck with your arms, and hold on to a sturdy piece of furniture.
- Stay Away from Windows: Broken glass is a major hazard during earthquakes.
- Evacuate If Necessary: If you are in a building that is damaged, evacuate immediately.
Moving Forward
The earthquake near Ackerly serves as a reminder that even in areas not known for seismic activity, earthquakes can occur. It's important to be prepared and know what to do in the event of an earthquake. The recent tremors have prompted renewed discussions about the potential link between oil and gas activity and seismic activity, and the need for further research and responsible development practices.
