Stay informed about the recent 4.1-magnitude Earthquake in Oklahoma City and its aftershocks. Get expert insights and essential safety tips.

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Central Oklahoma Shaken by 4.1-Magnitude Earthquake

In early Saturday morning, Central Oklahoma experienced a 4.1-magnitude earthquake, a follow-up to a slightly stronger quake the previous night. This recent seismic activity has put the area on alert.

Epicenter and Characteristics

The quake struck just after 5:30 a.m. local time, with its epicenter about 19 miles north of Oklahoma City, near the Northeast Edmond Gas and Oil Field. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, it had a depth of approximately 4.1 miles and was part of several earthquakes on Friday and Saturday.

Reports from the Oklahoma Geological Survey

The Oklahoma Geological Survey has noted reports of significant shaking in the immediate area and throughout Oklahoma City. These reports were echoed by residents on social media, as covered by The Oklahoman, a part of the USA TODAY Network.

Insights from the State Seismologist

State Seismologist Jake Walter informed USA TODAY that the area recorded about 18 earthquakes over 12 hours. Walter suggested that these quakes are aligned along a previously identified fault, and he pointed to human activities, such as fracking, as a contributing factor to the recent increase in seismic activity.

Context of Seismic Activity

The area peaked in earthquake activity during 2015-16, primarily due to wastewater disposal from oil and natural gas production linked to fracking. Though the intensity of these activities has decreased, smaller, less noticeable earthquakes have continued. The lack of recent wastewater disposal adds to the complexity of understanding the current seismic trend.

Magnitude Adjustments and Sequence of Quakes

The series began with a 4.3-magnitude earthquake on Friday night, roughly a mile from the location of Saturday morning’s Earthquake. A 2.7-magnitude quake was also recorded on Saturday morning. The USGS later revised the magnitudes of these earthquakes, reducing Saturday’s quake from an initial estimate of 4.4 to 4.1 and Friday night is from 4.4 to 4.3.

Safety Recommendations for Residents

State officials are urging residents to secure any items that could move during strong aftershocks and to familiarize themselves with the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” safety procedure in preparation for potential future earthquakes.