Twin Quakes Rattle US City as Ancient Fault Reawakens
New Mexico Hit by Back-to-Back Earthquakes Amid Fears of Ancient Fault Reactivation
By STACY LIBERATORE | Updated: 20:51 BST, 8 May 2025
New Mexico experienced two earthquakes within minutes of each other on Thursday, sparking concerns about the reactivation of an ancient geological fault. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recorded a 3.6 magnitude quake followed by a 3.1 magnitude tremor at 12:24 p.m. local time, both centered less than 10 miles south of Eunice.
Geological Context: The Rio Grande Rift
The region lies atop the Alamogordo Fault, part of the Rio Grande Rift—a 600-mile-long geological rift stretching from Colorado to Mexico. This active rift widens up to 2mm annually, causing occasional earthquakes. While it’s unclear if the rift directly caused Thursday’s quakes, the area’s tectonic activity remains a key factor.
The Rio Grande Rift, a tectonic hotspot, spans 600 miles and is slowly widening (Image: USGS).
Fracking and Seismic Activity
Eunice sits in the Permian Basin, a hub for oil and gas extraction, including hydraulic fracturing (fracking). While fracking itself rarely triggers quakes, the disposal of wastewater into underground wells can induce seismic activity. The USGS is investigating whether local energy operations contributed to the tremors.
Impact and Aftershocks
The quakes were shallow, amplifying their impact. Nearby towns like Hobbs (population 38,400) and Kermit (6,400 residents) likely felt the shaking. Eunice, with 3,100 residents, reported no immediate damage.
Map showing the epicenter near Eunice and surrounding towns (Image: USGS).
Recent Seismic History
Just days earlier, a 5.4 magnitude quake struck southern New Mexico, rattling areas as far as El Paso, Texas. The USGS noted that aftershocks could continue for weeks, urging residents to stay prepared.
Why This Matters
The Rio Grande Rift’s slow expansion highlights ongoing tectonic stress. While the recent quakes were minor, they underscore the need for earthquake readiness. As the USGS advises: “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” during tremors.
The region’s geological dynamics remind us that the Earth’s crust is ever-shifting—whether through natural rifting or human activity.
For more updates, follow our live coverage of seismic activity in the Southwest.
