Hill City, KS – Residents in northwestern Kansas experienced two minor earthquakes early Friday, prompting renewed interest in local seismic activity but causing no reports of significant damage or injuries.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the first quake, registering a magnitude of 2.7, struck approximately 11 kilometers northwest of Stockton at a depth of 5 kilometers. The event was recorded at 7:53 a.m. local time, and a small number of residents submitted felt reports online, noting mild shaking.
A second, nearly identical tremor occurred about four hours later. The USGS confirmed that a 2.7 magnitude earthquake was detected 2 kilometers east-northeast of Hill City at a depth of 9 kilometers. The event was logged at 6:23 a.m. local time. One citizen also reported feeling this earthquake, with intensity measured at level IV on the Community Internet Intensity Map, indicating light shaking.
USGS data shows both earthquakes were reviewed and confirmed by the agency’s National Earthquake Information Center. While earthquakes of this size are unlikely to cause structural damage, the events serve as a reminder that seismic activity, though rare, does occur in the central United States.
Local officials have not reported any injuries or infrastructure issues. The USGS encourages residents who experienced the tremors to share their observations online to help build a more complete picture of earthquake impacts in the region.
The area is not typically known for frequent seismic activity, but geologists note that minor quakes can occur along ancient fault lines in the Midwest. Emergency management agencies recommend residents review earthquake safety tips and stay informed about local hazards.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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