Texas Oilfield Shaken by Second-Largest Earthquake in Permian Region
A 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck West Texas near the border of Reeves and Culberson counties, marking the fourth strongest recorded in Texas. The increase in seismic activity in the region has been attributed to years of hydraulic fracturing and the injection of contaminated water deep underground. The area has seen a rise in earthquakes, including a recent 4.0 magnitude quake and several others above 3.5 magnitude. State regulators have ordered companies to reduce water injections, but experts warn that the earthquakes may persist even as injections slow. The Texas Railroad Commission is inspecting disposal wells in the area to determine further action.