Unusual Earthquake Activity Rattles Oklahoma City Area

A sequence of earthquakes unfolded in the Oklahoma City metro area on the evening of January 13, 2024, leaving residents unsettled. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the seismic events included two notable 4.4 magnitude earthquakes.

The seismic activity commenced with a 3.2 magnitude earthquake near Arcadia, northeast of Oklahoma City, at 9:37 p.m. CT. Shortly after, a more intense 4.4 magnitude quake occurred just four miles west of Arcadia. Subsequent to these, two smaller earthquakes measuring 2.7 and 2.5 magnitudes, respectively, were recorded.

The tremors resumed on Saturday morning with a 2.6 magnitude earthquake near Arcadia at around 4:45 a.m. CT. Approximately an hour later, another significant 4.4 magnitude earthquake struck near Edmond, just north of Oklahoma City. A smaller quake of 2.7 magnitudes followed at 6:55 a.m. CT.

As of Saturday morning, no damages or injuries have been reported. The USGS noted that earthquakes under 4.9 magnitudes typically cause disturbances and may be felt by many indoors, while those at 5.0 magnitudes or greater are more likely to cause damage.

The Oklahoma Geological Survey (OGS) issued a statement reporting “strong shaking in the immediate area and across Oklahoma City.” They emphasized the ongoing seismic hazard in the region, urging citizens to secure valuables and be prepared for possible strong aftershocks.

Despite the unsettling nature of the events, the earthquakes did not reach the intensity of the most powerful recorded quake in Oklahoma’s history, a 5.8 magnitude quake in 2016 near Pawnee. The incident led to legal action, with Pawnee Nation filing a lawsuit against certain oil companies, alleging that wastewater injection caused the earthquake.

Related Topics: Earthquakes, Oklahoma City, Seismic Activity