Seismic activity has become a notable concern in Oklahoma in recent years.
Since 2009, the state experienced a dramatic surge in earthquakes. From 2014 to 2017, hundreds occurred every year.
This sudden increase in frequency has even surpassed that of historically active regions like California during that period.
The earthquakes in Oklahoma have mainly been induced by human activities such as oil and gas extraction, although very few are directly caused by fracking.
Oklahoma’s earthquake swarms have notably affected central Oklahoma, southern Kansas, and northern Texas.
Residents near these earthquake epicenters may experience both sounds and vibrations, often within seconds of each other.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and other research bodies have conducted extensive studies to understand and mitigate these events.
Continued efforts are focused on coordinating among state agencies, researchers, and the oil and gas industry to develop solutions.
Keeping track of Oklahoma’s seismic activity is essential for those living in the region.
Recent events, including a 5.1 magnitude quake in February 2024, highlight the ongoing risks despite a decline in the total number of temblors.
For more detailed information, readers can explore studies provided by the Oklahoma Secretary of Energy & Environment and other related resources.
Historical Seismicity in Oklahoma
Oklahoma has experienced seismic activity for over a century. This history is marked by gradual changes and significant events compared to other states like California.
Historical Earthquake Data
Records show that Oklahoma’s seismic activity dates back to the late 1800s.
The first documented earthquake was a magnitude 4.9 event in 1882. This quake was later adjusted to a 4.8 magnitude after reexamining historical accounts.
Throughout the 20th century, Oklahoma experienced a steady but relatively low rate of earthquakes. The rate of magnitude 3 and larger earthquakes was generally low, averaging around 1.5 quakes per year.
In 2009, things changed dramatically.
Oklahoma started seeing a surge in seismic activity.
By 2013, the state averaged two magnitude 3 or greater earthquakes per week.
In some years, the number of these significant quakes even exceeded those in California from 2014 through 2017.
The Oklahoma Geological Survey attributed this surge largely to oil and gas-related processes.
Comparing Oklahoma to Other States
When compared to other states, Oklahoma’s seismic profile is unique.
Historically, California has been the most seismically active state in the U.S. due to its location along the San Andreas Fault.
Yet, from 2014 to 2017, Oklahoma’s rate of magnitude 3 and higher earthquakes surpassed California’s.
Other states, like Texas and Kansas, have experienced increased seismicity related to oil and gas production, but not to the same extent as Oklahoma.
The significant rise in Oklahoma’s earthquakes is partially due to the state’s geological conditions and intense oil and gas activities.
Impact of Industry and Environmental Factors
Oklahoma’s increased earthquake activity in recent years is closely tied to industrial and environmental factors. Key contributors include oil and gas extraction, wastewater disposal, and the efforts to mitigate these effects.
Oil and Gas Extraction
Oil and gas extraction in Oklahoma has surged since the early 2000s.
The state’s rich underground reservoirs have attracted substantial energy production activities.
Compared to the past, modern extraction techniques, especially hydraulic fracturing (fracking), have boosted the region’s output.
Fracking involves injecting high-pressure fluid into underground rock formations to release oil and gas.
This process, though effective in energy production, alters the underground stress fields, making the region more susceptible to seismic events.
Yet, only a few earthquakes have been directly linked to fracking itself.
Wastewater Disposal and Earthquake Correlation
Wastewater disposal, particularly into deep underground wells, has been identified as a significant factor in Oklahoma’s seismicity.
When wastewater from oil and gas operations is injected into the Arbuckle Formation, it increases underground pressure, potentially inducing earthquakes.
A 2013 study found a strong link between these injections and earthquake occurrences.
The process shifts pre-existing faults, triggering seismic activities.
This practice has resulted in a noticeable uptick in the frequency and magnitude of earthquakes in regions with high disposal well densities.
Mitigation Efforts and Regulatory Responses
State agencies in Oklahoma have implemented several measures to address the induced seismicity.
The Oklahoma Corporation Commission, alongside the Coordinating Council on Seismic Activity, has introduced regulations to limit injection rates and depths.
These rules aim to reduce the earthquake risk by controlling underground pressures.
The Oklahoma Secretary of Energy and Environment has also pushed for closer monitoring and stricter enforcement of these regulations.
Mitigation efforts include shutting down problematic wells and enhancing geophysical research to better understand the impact of industrial activities on seismicity.
By incorporating these strategies, the state aims to balance energy production with environmental safety.