5.3 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes West Texas Near New Mexico Border

EL PASO, Texas – A 5.3 magnitude earthquake shook West Texas on Saturday night, part of a series of quakes affecting the region near the Texas-New Mexico border.

The earthquake hit at 7:47 p.m. local time, approximately 35 miles south of Whites City, New Mexico, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The quake’s epicenter was located about four miles beneath the Earth’s surface, roughly positioned between the Texas cities of El Paso and Midland.

Despite the noticeable tremors felt by residents in the area, there were no immediate reports of injuries or significant structural damage. The USGS noted that the region is sparsely populated, reducing the impact on local communities.

This quake is part of a larger swarm that has seen 46 earthquakes in the area since early April. The USGS has indicated a 65% chance of a strong aftershock occurring within the next week.

Reports from multiple Texas cities, including Arlington, Midland, and Lubbock, indicated that residents felt the tremors. NBC affiliate KTSM reported this quake as the strongest of three significant tremors on Saturday night, with additional quakes recorded at magnitudes of 3.4 and 2.9.

No further incidents have been reported as authorities monitor the situation.