Nye County, Nevada – Nine earthquakes up to magnitude 4.3 struck near Tonopah Sunday afternoon, prompting monitoring by state seismologists.
According to the Nevada Seismological Laboratory and ANSS ComCat data, the swarm occurred between 4:42 p.m. and 5:16 p.m. UTC (late morning local time) on Sunday, March 1. The strongest event, a magnitude 4.3 quake, was recorded 78 kilometers northeast of Tonopah at a depth of 11 kilometers.
Most of the earthquakes ranged between magnitude 2.5 and 2.7 and were centered 51 to 77 kilometers east and northeast of Tonopah. Depths varied from less than 1 kilometer to 16 kilometers, indicating shifting activity within the same general fault zone.
All events were listed as automatic or reviewed solutions by the Nevada Seismological Laboratory. No immediate reports of damage or injuries were issued. The U.S. Geological Survey’s PAGER system categorized the strongest quake as “Green,” indicating a low likelihood of significant economic losses or fatalities.
The activity occurred in a sparsely populated portion of Nye County, roughly midway between Reno and Las Vegas. While small earthquakes are common in Nevada — the third most seismically active state — clusters of events in a short time span are classified as swarms.
Seismologists continue monitoring the area for aftershocks. According to forecast modeling, additional minor quakes are possible in the coming days.
For travelers along U.S. Highway 6 and State Route 376, no roadway impacts were reported.
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