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Louisiana experiences a magnitude 4.9 earthquake

Regional map of Red River Parish, Louisiana 4.9 earthquake.
USGS
Regional map of Red River Parish, Louisiana 4.9 earthquake.

A magnitude 4.9 earthquake in north Louisiana on Thursday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). This marks the second-largest earthquake ever recorded in the state's history. The largest earthquake ever recorded in Louisiana happened just over 20 years ago. This magnitude 5.3 tremor struck offshore near Grand Isle on February 10, 2006.

It is believed that human activities are responsible for the earthquake, as the injection of wastewater into the ground can induce seismic events.

The earthquake had a depth of 3.1 miles and was located 6.2 miles west of Edgefield, Louisiana. It took place at 5:30 a.m. The USGS indicated that there is a green alert for potential shaking-related fatalities and economic losses, suggesting a low probability of casualties and damage.