4.9 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Toyah, Texas

2025-03-02

A 4.9 magnitude earthquake struck near Toyah, Texas, approximately 200 miles east of El Paso, at 10:23 p.m. Mountain Time on Friday, February 14, 2025. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported the quake was centered about 30 miles northwest of Toyah in Reeves County, with a depth of 6.6 kilometers (4 miles). Aftershocks, including one measuring 2.6 magnitude, were detected within minutes of the main event.

Residents across El Paso, Las Cruces, La Mesa, Alamogordo, and surrounding areas reported feeling the tremor. The National Weather Service in El Paso confirmed the earthquake’s magnitude and location, while El Paso Fire Dispatch noted numerous calls about shaking but no reports of damage or power outages.

The USGS issued a Green alert, indicating a low likelihood of casualties or significant damage. However, 16 aftershocks were recorded within five hours, ranging from magnitudes 1.4 to 3.8. The agency also forecasted a 52% probability of additional M3+ aftershocks in the following week.

While earthquakes of this magnitude are relatively uncommon in Texas, the region has seen increased seismic activity in recent years, often linked to human activities such as wastewater injection from oil and gas operations. The Permian Basin, a major oil-producing area, has been particularly affected by induced seismicity. Regulatory measures have been implemented to monitor and restrict high-volume disposal wells to mitigate earthquake risks.

No injuries or structural damage were reported in the immediate aftermath of the quake. Authorities continue to monitor the situation as aftershocks persist.