QUAKE: Small New Year’s Earthquake Shakes Idaho

3.0 Magnitude Earthquake Shakes Stanley on New Year's Eve

Residents near Stanley, Idaho, might have felt a small tremor as the United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported a 3.0 magnitude earthquake on December 31, 2024. The earthquake occurred at approximately 12:25 p.m., just west of Stanley, a town known for its mountain views and occasional seismic activity.

Earthquakes in Idaho: How Common Are They?

Idaho experiences frequent seismic activity, though most earthquakes are minor and go unnoticed. The state is situated in a region of the Intermountain West that is tectonically active, with hundreds of small earthquakes recorded annually.

While tremors like the one near Stanley are relatively common, larger quakes are less frequent but more impactful. A notable example is the 6.5 magnitude earthquake that struck near Stanley on March 31, 2020, the second-largest in Idaho’s recorded history. That event was felt across multiple states and resulted in numerous aftershocks over several months.

The Importance of Earthquake Preparedness

Significant earthquakes, while rare, can have substantial impacts on communities. You can be prepared by securing heavy furniture, creating emergency plans, and knowing what to do during and after a quake.

For more information about earthquake preparedness, visit the Idaho Geological Survey's website.

A Look Back at Idaho's Seismic History

Idaho has a long history of seismic events, with significant earthquakes recorded in 1983 near Borah Peak and in 2020 near Stanley.

If you felt the recent tremor near Stanley, you can report your experience on the USGS Did You Feel It? webpage.