5.1 Magnitude Earthquake Centered in West Texas Rattles Dallas, Austin

A 5.1 magnitude earthquake shook West Texas on Tuesday afternoon, rattling buildings and businesses in Dallas and Austin.

The quake was centered near the town of Mentone, Texas, about 200 miles west of Dallas. It struck at a depth of about 8 miles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

There were no immediate reports of major damage or injuries. However, the quake was felt as far away as Oklahoma City and Little Rock, Arkansas.

The earthquake is the largest to hit Texas in more than a decade. In 2011, a 5.6 magnitude earthquake struck near Mineral Wells, Texas, causing significant damage.

According to the USGS, earthquakes are relatively common in Texas. However, most of them are small and do not cause any damage.

The quake comes just days after a series of smaller earthquakes shook Oklahoma. Scientists are still investigating the cause of the recent increase in seismic activity in the region.

Here are some tips on what to do if you experience an earthquake:

• Drop to the ground, cover your head and neck with your arms, and hold on to something sturdy until the shaking stops.
• Stay away from windows, outside doors and walls, and anything that could fall, such as lighting fixtures or furniture.
• If you are in a car, pull over to the side of the road and stop. Stay in the car and wait for the shaking to stop.
• If you are outdoors, find a clear spot away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
• Be prepared for aftershocks, which can occur in the days or weeks following an earthquake.