Monday Night Earthquake Sent Shockwaves Throughout Texas

Late Monday night, an earthquake reached 4.9 magnitude with its epicenter west of Abilene, around Hermleigh, TX.

Not only was there the initial quake, but it spurred two additional aftershocks that were about 3.1 magnitude each.

Aftershocks were felt as far away as Amarillo to the north and Austin to the south, with more aftershocks present into Tuesday morning.

Fortunately, there have been no injuries or damages reported at this time.

Why do earthquakes happen?

First off, an earthquake occurs when two sections of the Earth's crust pass each other underneath our feet. They pass along 'fault lines' and they store up energy that gets dispersed throughout the surface.

These stored up waves create the ever-so-friendly rumblies we feel as an earthquake is happening.

Texas has seen thousands of quakes within the past 50 years. It remains a mystery as to whether or not an earthquake will strike on land or sea.

In fact, the most common locations for earthquakes to happen are in the ocean. Johnny Cash said it best when he sang about how bad it burns in the Ring of Fire, since that is the nickname of one of the most densely populated areas of the Earth when it comes to earthquakes.

If you want to stay on top of earthquakes in Texas (not literally), then you can always check the USGS website for interactive maps and regional updates.