Whites City, New Mexico – A magnitude 3.7 earthquake was recorded Thursday afternoon northwest of Whites City, prompting light shaking reports across southeastern New Mexico.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake occurred at 12:05 p.m. Mountain Time Thursday, with the epicenter located approximately 19 kilometers (12 miles) north-northwest of Whites City in Eddy County. The quake originated at a shallow depth of about 5 kilometers, which can increase the likelihood of being felt near the epicenter.
USGS data shows at least seven community “Did You Feel It?” reports, with shaking intensity ranging from Level IV (light) to Level V (moderate) on the Modified Mercalli Intensity scale. Residents reported noticeable shaking indoors, including rattling objects, but no immediate structural damage or injuries were reported as of Thursday afternoon.
The estimated intensity map indicates the strongest shaking was concentrated in sparsely populated areas north of Whites City, with weaker effects extending toward nearby communities. Emergency management officials had not issued any alerts or closures in response to the earthquake.
Southeastern New Mexico experiences occasional seismic activity, particularly near basin and fault zones associated with natural geology and energy development. Earthquakes of this magnitude are generally not expected to cause significant damage but are commonly felt by nearby residents.
For commuters and local workers, shallow earthquakes like Thursday’s event can briefly disrupt daily routines, though no infrastructure impacts were reported.
The USGS continues to monitor the region for aftershocks and encourages residents who felt the quake to submit reports through its citizen science program to help refine intensity data.
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