Burke, South Dakota – A minor earthquake sent a brief jolt through communities near the Nebraska-South Dakota border Sunday morning, raising awareness but causing no immediate reports of damage.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, a magnitude 2.6 earthquake struck at 8:20 a.m. local time, centered 11 kilometers north-northeast of Burke, South Dakota, with a depth of 8 kilometers. The tremor was felt in southern Gregory County and may have been noticed in small towns along Highway 18, just north of the Nebraska state line.
Residents in Burke and neighboring towns such as Herrick, Bonesteel, and the Nebraska communities of Butte and Spencer are encouraged to check for any signs of structural cracks, especially in older buildings. No disruptions to utilities or travel routes were immediately reported, but local emergency management advises residents to remain aware of aftershocks, which are possible but unlikely with quakes of this size.
While South Dakota rarely experiences significant seismic activity, the event serves as a reminder for residents along the border to keep basic emergency kits and review household safety plans. USGS officials will continue monitoring for additional activity; updates will be provided if any new information emerges.
