Scurry County in West Texas faced 103 earthquakes in one week. The first major quake, measuring 4.9 magnitude, struck on July 22.
Officials declared a state of emergency due to the unprecedented seismic activity. This earthquake swarm is highly unusual for Texas, which typically experiences low seismic activity.
County Judge Reports Damage to Buildings
Judge Dan Hicks declared a disaster in Scurry County. He observed damage to businesses and residences throughout the area.
The cumulative effect of multiple quakes raised concerns about structural integrity. The courthouse experienced significant shaking during a 5.0 magnitude quake on July 29.
USGS Confirms 12 Significant Earthquakes
The U.S. Geological Survey recorded 12 earthquakes of magnitude 3.0 or higher. Geophysicist Justin Rubinstein provided this data to local authorities.
Earthquakes of this magnitude can cause noticeable shaking and minor damage. The frequency of these larger quakes in a short period is unusual for the region.
Oil and Gas Extraction Linked
Experts attribute the earthquakes to oil and gas extraction. This conclusion has 99% certainty according to USGS scientists. Texas is not naturally prone to significant seismic activity.
The link between extraction activities and induced seismicity has been observed in other oil-producing regions as well.
Modern Drilling Techniques Cause Concern
Horizontal drilling technology has increased oil production in Texas. This method allows access to previously unreachable deposits.
Companies can extract oil from ancient oceanic sediments. However, this technique also brings up large volumes of saltwater.
Produced Water: A Drilling Byproduct
Oil extraction produces significant amounts of saltwater. The ratio can be up to 20 barrels of saltwater per barrel of oil.
This “produced water” is prehistoric and highly saline. It often contains contaminants that make surface disposal impossible.
Saltwater Disposal and Earthquake Connection
Companies pump produced water deep underground for disposal. This process, known as saltwater disposal, can trigger earthquakes.
The large volumes of injected water can increase underground pressure. Scurry County has experienced seismic activity related to this since 2020.
Understanding Earthquake Magnitude Scale
The moment magnitude scale measures earthquake strength logarithmically. Each whole number represents a tenfold increase in strength.
A 5.0 magnitude quake is considered moderate. The largest quake in this swarm reached 5.0, capable of causing notable shaking and minor damage.
Texas Railroad Commission Investigates Causes
The state’s oil and gas regulator launched an investigation. They’re examining the connection between fluid injection and seismicity.
Some operators have already modified their disposal practices. The commission aims to mitigate earthquake risks while maintaining oil production.
Regulatory Actions to Reduce Seismicity
Inspectors are examining disposal wells near the earthquake cluster. Two deep disposal wells have been shut down following inspections.
The commission continues to monitor seismic data closely. These actions aim to protect residents and the environment.
