Residents in southern Arizona felt shaking Friday after an earthquake rattled parts of the region, according to seismic officials and local reports from community members who described sudden vibrations and rumbling sensations.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake struck near the Arizona-Mexico border and was felt in several communities across southern Arizona. Initial reports indicated the quake registered a magnitude of approximately 3.5, though seismic measurements can sometimes change slightly after additional analysis.
The quake was reported Friday morning and appeared to shake areas near Cochise County and surrounding communities. Residents in towns throughout southern Arizona said they felt brief but noticeable shaking that lasted several seconds. Some people described hearing low rumbling noises before or during the movement.
The U.S. Geological Survey’s “Did You Feel It?” reporting system quickly received responses from residents who said they experienced shaking inside homes and businesses. Some individuals reported rattling windows, moving furniture, vibrating walls, and shaking dishes. Others said the tremor felt similar to a heavy truck passing nearby.
Emergency officials said there were no immediate reports of injuries or major structural damage tied to the earthquake. Authorities continued monitoring the area Friday while encouraging residents to report any damage or hazardous conditions if discovered later.
Arizona is not generally considered one of the nation’s most active earthquake states, but experts say small earthquakes occur regularly throughout parts of the region. The Arizona Geological Survey states that hundreds of small quakes happen each year, though most are too weak to be noticed by residents.
Seismologists say southern Arizona can occasionally feel earthquakes originating in neighboring California or Mexico because of fault systems running throughout the Southwest. In recent days, southwest Arizona has also remained on alert following an earthquake swarm centered in California’s Imperial County near the Arizona border. That swarm included hundreds of smaller tremors and several stronger earthquakes exceeding magnitude 4.0.
Historically, Arizona has experienced several stronger earthquakes, including notable quakes near Flagstaff, Douglas, and areas along the Arizona-Mexico border. However, damaging earthquakes remain relatively uncommon compared to states along the Pacific Coast.
Officials reminded residents that even smaller earthquakes can serve as a reminder to review emergency preparedness plans, secure heavy furniture, and maintain disaster supply kits in case stronger seismic activity occurs in the future.
Source: AZFamily
