Fairview, Wyo. – A light earthquake shook western Wyoming Wednesday afternoon, with the U.S. Geological Survey confirming a magnitude 2.8 tremor centered about 22 kilometers west of Fairview.
According to the USGS, the quake struck at 12:39 p.m. local time at a depth of 5 kilometers. No damage or injuries have been reported, and there were no immediate responses logged to the USGS “Did You Feel It?” citizen reporting system.
The epicenter was in a rural area of Star Valley, near the Idaho border, though residents in nearby communities such as Afton and Etna may have experienced mild shaking. Given its shallow depth, the earthquake was likely noticeable to those close to the source, but quakes of this size rarely cause structural damage.
Wyoming averages several small quakes each year, many going unfelt except by sensitive instruments. Emergency officials remind residents to keep basic earthquake safety in mind: secure heavy furniture, know safe spots in each room, and be prepared to “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” if shaking occurs.
USGS continues to monitor the region, though no aftershocks have been reported as of Wednesday afternoon.
