Excessive Heat Warning

until FRI 8:00 PM MST, Yuma County, Parker Valley

Red Flag Warning

from SAT 11:00 AM MST until SAT 8:00 PM MST, Northwest Deserts/Northwest Plateau

Air Quality Alert

until FRI 9:00 PM MST, Tucson Metro Area including Tucson/Green Valley/Marana/Vail, Maricopa County

Special Weather Statement

until FRI 6:45 PM MST, Yavapai County Mountains, Yavapai County Valleys and Basins

5.3M earthquake, 3.6M aftershock reported in Western Texas

By Ronnie Marley

Published December 16, 2022 5:00pm MST

MIDLAND, Texas - A moderate earthquake occurred in Western Texas on Friday afternoon.

According to the USGS, the 5.3 magnitude earthquake occurred around 5:30 p.m. and was located 12 ½ miles north-northwest of Midland.

A meteorologist at a local station in Midland reported this was the fourth-strongest quake ever recorded in the state of Texas.

According to the USGS, a 3.6 magnitude aftershock was reported a few minutes after the initial earthquake.

Currently, there are no reports of injuries.