Texas has a history of earthquakes — but human activity is increasing their frequency

AUSTIN (KXAN) — In the wake of a magnitude 5.1 earthquake rattling near Midland Monday evening, Texas geology experts are giving further insight into some of the causes behind these quakes. Monday’s magnitude 5.1 earthquake had its epicenter located in the area surrounding Ackerly, Texas, which is about 20 miles north of Midland. While out in West Texas, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) received reports from those in the Austin metro feeling the tremors. Dr. Shelly Wernette is an assistant professor of instruction at Texas State University, who works...