Cowles, Nebraska – A rare magnitude 4.1 earthquake rattled homes and startled residents near the Nebraska–Kansas border Sunday afternoon, with shaking reported by hundreds across the region.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake struck at 1:59 p.m. CST about 5 kilometers east of Cowles, Nebraska, at a shallow depth of roughly 3 kilometers. The epicenter sits in Webster County, just north of the Kansas state line, an area not typically known for frequent seismic activity.
The USGS “Did You Feel It?” map shows reports spanning north central Kansas communities including Smith Center and Mankato, as well as Nebraska towns such as Red Cloud, Superior and Blue Hill. Light shaking was reported indoors, with dishes rattling and brief vibrations felt in homes and businesses.
The event was reviewed by the USGS and assigned a green PAGER status, indicating a low likelihood of significant damage or economic loss. Forecasters estimate a 5% chance of a magnitude 4 aftershock within the next week, with stronger aftershocks considered unlikely.
While damage reports were minimal as of Sunday evening, officials encourage residents to check for minor structural cracks and secure heavy items. Updates will follow if aftershocks develop or additional information becomes available.
