West Texas has experienced a significant increase in seismic activity over the past decade, raising concerns about the role of fracking and oil drilling in triggering these earthquakes. While the region is not historically known for frequent seismic events, recent studies suggest that human activities, particularly the injection of wastewater from oil and gas operations, have contributed to a growing number of tremors. These earthquakes not only pose risks to local communities but can also lead to catastrophic explosions in oil and gas facilities, endangering workers and residents alike.
This article explores the connection between fracking, wastewater disposal, and earthquakes in West Texas. The petrochemical injury attorneys at Kherkher Garcia explore the potential for devastating explosions at industrial sites and the legal options available to those affected by these events.
The Rise of Earthquakes in West Texas
Prior to the boom of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) and horizontal drilling, West Texas was relatively seismically quiet. However, data from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) shows a sharp increase in the frequency and magnitude of earthquakes in the region, particularly in the Permian Basin, a major oil-producing area.
The increase in seismic activity has been linked to the injection of wastewater – produced during oil and gas extraction – into deep underground wells. The high-pressure injection of this fluid alters underground stresses and can activate pre-existing fault lines, leading to induced earthquakes.
In recent years, earthquakes measuring above magnitude 4.0 have been reported near drilling sites, raising alarms about the risks they pose to infrastructure, including oil refineries, drilling rigs, and storage facilities.
Recent 5.0 Earthquake Causes Massive Pipeline Fire
A natural gas pipeline in the Permian Basin ruptured following a magnitude 5.0 earthquake near Toyah in Reeves County on February 15, 2025. The rupture caused a fire, which was fully extinguished by the morning. This marks the second pipeline failure in Reeves County within eight months and the third in 19 months, raising concerns about the connection between fracking activities and seismic events.
The earthquake’s epicenter was 53 km west of Toyah, and it was felt by approximately 352,000 people, with 592,000 experiencing weak tremors. At least 16 aftershocks followed, ranging in magnitude from 1.4 to 3.8. Seismic activity in Texas has been increasing over the past two decades, particularly in the Permian Basin, where oil and gas operations are extensive. Wastewater injection, a byproduct of hydraulic fracturing, has been identified as a key contributor to induced earthquakes by raising underground pressure and triggering fault movement.
The USGS and Texas Seismological Network have established a strong link between wastewater disposal and seismic activity. In response, the Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) imposed restrictions on deep-water reinjection in northern Culberson and Reeves counties in early 2023. The RRC continues to monitor seismic activity and tighten oversight of wastewater injection wells.
Industry representatives acknowledge the risks but stress the need to balance regulatory measures with economic considerations. The Permian Basin remains the largest oil- and gas-producing region in the U.S., and further restrictions could have significant economic consequences.
How Oil Drilling, Fracking and Wastewater Injection Trigger Earthquakes
Fracking itself is a process that involves injecting high-pressure fluids into rock formations to extract oil and gas. While fracking can cause small tremors, the primary concern is the disposal of the vast amounts of wastewater generated during drilling operations. This wastewater is often injected into underground wells, a practice that has been closely associated with increased seismic activity.
When wastewater is injected deep into the earth, it increases pressure on fault lines that were previously stable. Over time, this pressure can cause the faults to slip, resulting in earthquakes. The larger and more frequent the injections, the greater the likelihood of triggering significant seismic events.
The Risk of Explosions in Oil and Gas Facilities
One of the most dangerous consequences of earthquakes in West Texas is their potential to cause catastrophic explosions in oil and gas facilities. These sites contain highly flammable materials, pressurized pipelines, and complex processing equipment, all of which can be vulnerable to seismic shaking.
Structural Damage and Equipment Failure
When earthquakes strike, the ground motion can compromise the structural integrity of drilling rigs, refineries, and storage tanks. Even minor damage to pipelines and pressure valves can lead to dangerous gas leaks or liquid fuel spills. In worst-case scenarios, ruptured pipelines and damaged storage tanks can ignite, resulting in massive fires and explosions.
Pipeline Ruptures
West Texas is crisscrossed by thousands of miles of pipelines that transport oil, natural gas, and wastewater. Earthquakes can cause these pipelines to crack or rupture, leading to uncontrolled releases of highly flammable substances. If these leaks occur near an ignition source—such as a running engine, electrical equipment, or even a spark from friction—the result can be a devastating explosion.
Well Blowouts
Earthquakes can also destabilize active drilling wells, leading to well blowouts. A blowout occurs when the pressure in a well becomes unmanageable, forcing oil or gas to erupt uncontrollably. Such incidents have been known to result in fatalities, widespread environmental damage, and costly litigation.
Preventative Measures and Industry Response
The oil and gas industry is under increasing pressure to mitigate the risks associated with fracking-induced earthquakes. Some preventative measures include:
- Reducing the volume of wastewater injections in seismically active areas.
- Implementing real-time seismic monitoring near drilling sites.
- Developing alternative disposal methods, such as recycling wastewater for reuse.
- Strengthening infrastructure to withstand seismic activity.
While these steps may reduce risks, the growing evidence linking oil and gas operations to earthquakes suggests that further regulatory action may be necessary to protect workers and local communities.
Legal Implications and Liability in Earthquake-Related Explosions
The rise in induced earthquakes raises complex legal questions about liability and accountability. When an earthquake leads to an explosion or causes harm to workers and residents, multiple parties could be held responsible, including oil and gas companies, drilling contractors, and wastewater disposal operators.
Negligence and Duty of Care
Oil and gas companies have a duty to ensure that their operations do not pose unreasonable risks to public safety. If evidence suggests that a company’s wastewater injection practices contributed to an earthquake that caused injuries or property damage, they may be held liable for negligence.
To establish negligence, plaintiffs typically must prove:
- The company had a duty to prevent harm.
- The company breached that duty by engaging in unsafe practices.
- The breach directly caused the earthquake and resulting explosion or damage.
- The explosion led to injuries, fatalities, or economic losses.
Strict Liability for Ultrahazardous Activities
In some cases, oil and gas operations may be classified as “ultrahazardous activities,” meaning that companies can be held strictly liable for any damages caused by their actions, regardless of whether they acted negligently. Courts have ruled that industries dealing with inherently dangerous substances—such as petroleum and natural gas—must take full responsibility for any harm resulting from their operations.
Regulatory Compliance and Violations
State and federal regulations govern oil and gas operations, including seismic monitoring requirements and wastewater disposal limits. If a company violates these regulations and an earthquake-related explosion occurs, affected parties may have strong grounds for legal action. Regulatory agencies, such as the Texas Railroad Commission, have imposed restrictions on wastewater injection in certain high-risk areas, but enforcement remains inconsistent.
Compensation for Victims
Individuals affected by earthquake-induced explosions may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses for injuries sustained in the blast.
- Lost wages due to inability to work.
- Property damage, including destruction of homes and businesses.
- Emotional distress and pain and suffering.
Families of workers or residents who have lost their lives in such incidents may also pursue wrongful death claims against responsible parties.
Get Help after an Oil Drilling Incident
The surge in earthquakes in West Texas is a growing concern, with mounting evidence linking these seismic events to fracking and wastewater disposal practices. The risk of explosions at oil and gas facilities further amplifies the dangers posed by induced earthquakes, creating a serious threat to workers, residents, and the environment.
If you or a loved one has been affected by an explosion or injury resulting from an earthquake linked to oil drilling, legal options may be available. At Kherkher Garcia, our experienced petrochemical injury attorneys can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for your losses. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and take the first step toward justice.
Call us at 713-333-1030 to start your consultation now. You can also request a consultation or more information by submitting our website contact form.
Resources:
- https://watchers.news/2025/02/17/permian-basin-pipeline-ruptures-after-m5-0-earthquake-hits-texas/
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/ianpalmer/2025/02/20/a-serious-earthquake-in-the-drill-baby-drill-oilfields-of-texas/
- Image by Freepik
