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Recent Earthquakes Shake Central Kansas
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Central Kansas has experienced a series of earthquakes over the past few days, unsettling communities and prompting discussions about seismic activity in the region.
On Monday evening, a magnitude 3.3 earthquake struck near Assaria in Saline County at approximately 7:20 p.m. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the quake's epicenter was about 5 kilometers east of Assaria, with a depth of 3.9 kilometers. Residents in the area reported feeling light but noticeable shaking. Fortunately, no damage has been reported. ([kwch.com](https://www.kwch.com/2025/08/05/fourth-earthquake-3-days-shakes-central-kansas/?utm_source=openai))
This recent tremor marks the fourth earthquake in central Kansas within a span of three days. Over the weekend, three other quakes were recorded in Saline County, contributing to growing concerns among locals about the frequency of these events. ([kwch.com](https://www.kwch.com/2025/08/05/fourth-earthquake-3-days-shakes-central-kansas/?utm_source=openai))
Earlier this year, on February 3, a significant 5.1 magnitude earthquake in central Oklahoma was felt across a 200-mile radius, including parts of Kansas. The epicenter was near Prague, Oklahoma, approximately 150 miles south of Wichita. More than 23,000 people reported feeling the quake, with notable reports from Wichita and Hutchinson. ([kansas.com](https://www.kansas.com/news/local/article285031662.html/?utm_source=openai))
Seismic activity in Kansas has been on the rise in recent years. In January 2024, a pair of earthquakes rattled south-central Kansas. The first, a 2.5 magnitude quake, occurred near Cedar Point, while the second, a 2.1 magnitude tremor, was recorded near Cheney. ([wibw.com](https://www.wibw.com/2024/01/08/pair-earthquakes-rattle-south-central-kansas-begin-2024/?utm_source=openai))
Geologists have linked the increase in earthquakes in central and north-central Oklahoma, as well as southern Kansas, to the disposal of wastewater produced during oil extraction. This process involves injecting large volumes of wastewater into deep wells, which can increase pore pressure and potentially trigger seismic events. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oklahoma_earthquake_swarms_%282009%E2%80%93present%29?utm_source=openai))
While Kansas is not traditionally known for high seismic activity, the recent uptick in earthquakes has prompted state officials and residents to remain vigilant. The Kansas Geological Survey continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and awareness in the face of these natural events.
As the region experiences these tremors, it's crucial for residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. |