An investigation by the Kansas Corporation Commission found the recent quakes in Wichita are not tied to the gas or oil industry.
The city has seen a string of small earthquakes since Thanksgiving, including at least seven over the past weekend. The latest quakes report from the KGS came in early Wednesday morning. There have been no reports of damage from these quakes, and they have been centered roughly in the area of 13th and Greenwich.
“Based on our investigation, KCC staff does not believe the seismicity in Wichita, Kansas is tied to any oil and gas activities in the area,” said Ryan A. Hoffman, Director of the KCC Conservation Division.
The KCC’s investigation looked into the following factors:
- A review of historical disposal well records for Arbuckle or Granite Wash injection wells within a six-mile radius of the earthquakes. Five wells were located in the radius. No recent volume increases were found.
- Any new drilling activity within three miles of the epicenters. No new wells were recently completed within the area.
- Spot checks of the wells within the radius area to verify compliance with permit conditions.
The KCC is working with the USGS and will continue to monitor the situation.
