Love Wasn’t the Only Thing Shaking in West Texas Valentine’s Day

Love, Kisses, and Earthquakes: A Valentine’s Day Surprise

As a grown up, I admit I still remember the first kiss I ever experienced as a young teen in love. To me it felt like an earth-moving experience some may call it an earthquake I called it love. For hundreds of years many of us have referred to 'falling in love' as an earth shaking experience much like that of an earthquake.

When the Ground Shook in West Texas

I can recall what felt like a light earthquake tremble beneath me only to discover I was getting weak at the knees from being kissed for the very first time. Fast forward to this past Valentine's Day, at 11:23 p.m. February 14, 2025, a magnitude 5.0 earthquake shook the region, with the center of the earthquake just 45 miles northwest of Pecos in Culberson County. This tremor, one of the strongest in Texas history, was felt across West Texas and even into eastern New Mexico. Source: mrt.com

Social Media Reacts to the Valentine's Day Quake

While many of us were enjoying romantic dinners cozying up with our loved ones, the unexpected quake added an extra jolt to the evening. Both Facebook and X-Social media pages were a buzz with reactions like:

• "Thought my heart was skipping a beat from the chocolates, but turns out it was an earthquake."

• "When the earth moves on Valentine's Day and you're single all thanks goes to mother-nature."

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Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries or any significant property damage. Some reported feeling the tremble are far as 150 miles away to near Midland/Odessa. However, the quake did prompt discussions about the increasing seismic activity throughout Western Texas. Scientists have noted a rise in earthquakes in this portion of Texas, with studies suggesting a link to wastewater disposal practices associated with oil and gas operations. Source: texastribune.org

How This Earthquake Ranks in Texas History

In the past, the area around Culberson County has experienced multiple quakes, but events of this magnitude are rare. The Texas Tribune reported that this 5.0 quake is tied for the sixth strongest in Texas history. Source: texastribune.org

While the Valentine's Day quake gave residents a story to tell, it also serves as a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the Lone Star State's geology.