BATON ROUGE, Louisiana, (March 6) — A rare magnitude 4.9 earthquake jolted Louisiana early Thursday, marking the strongest ever recorded on state soil. The U.S. Geological Survey confirmed over 1,100 felt reports, with tremors reaching Shreveport, southern Arkansas, and western Texas.
When & Where Was the Epicenter Located?
The quake struck at 5:30 a.m. CT on March 5. It centered about 7 miles west of Edgefield in northwest Louisiana, roughly 36 miles southeast of Shreveport. The temblor occurred at a shallow depth of 3.1 miles. Security camera video from nearby Coushatta captured the shaking.
This surpasses prior records, including a 4.2 magnitude event in October 1930 on state soil and a 5.3 offshore in February 2006 south of Grand Isle. USGS data highlights its historic scale for the region.
Which Areas Felt the Louisiana Earthquake?
Over 650,000 people experienced weak shaking, per USGS estimates. Moderate shaking affected 19,000 near the epicenter. Reports came from Shreveport northward, southern Arkansas, and western Texas. Red River Parish, home to Coushatta and Edgefield, bore the brunt.
The event rattled residents across northwest Louisiana and adjacent states. USGS received more than 1,100 shaking reports by Thursday.
What Damages or Injuries Were Reported?
No damage, injuries, or deaths have surfaced as of now. Officials continue assessments in the aftermath. The quake’s shallow depth amplified felt intensity without widespread destruction. USGS monitors for aftershocks.
Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office noted the area’s recent minor quakes but stressed this event’s rarity.
What Relief Efforts Are Underway?
Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office posted a Facebook video confirming the record quake. They contacted OEP Director Shane Hubbard and coordinated with Louisiana Department of Natural Resources. No major relief activations reported yet due to absent damage.
Officials remind residents earthquakes strike unexpectedly, even in low-risk zones. Monitoring persists for potential aftershocks or issues.
FAQs
Q: How strong was the Louisiana earthquake on Today?
A: Magnitude 4.9, the strongest ever on Louisiana soil, centered 7 miles west of Edgefield.
Q: Where did people feel the shaking?
A: Shreveport, northwest Louisiana, southern Arkansas, western Texas; over 650,000 impacted.
Q: Any damage from the 4.9 quake?
A: None reported; no injuries or deaths confirmed Thursday.
Q: What’s the history of big quakes in Louisiana?
A: Previous strongest on soil was 4.2 in 1930; 5.3 offshore in 2006.
This is a developing story. Updates may follow.Â
