5.3-magnitude earthquake and aftershocks rattle West Texas, experts say. ‘Unsettling’

A 5.3-magnitude earthquake shook West Texas and was felt for hundreds of miles around, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The 4.5-mile deep quake hit near Mentone, roughly 200 miles east of El Paso, at about 4:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 8, USGS data show.

More than 400 people reported feeling the earthquake, not only in Texas but in New Mexico and Mexico, data show.

It was “unsettling” for some.

The National Weather Service in El Paso said tremors were felt even in Santa Teresa, more than 200 miles away.

The quake was followed by several aftershocks. Though most were fairly weak, multiple registered magnitudes greater than 3.

Earthquakes measuring between 2.5 to 5.4 are “often felt, but only cause minor damage,” according to Michigan Technological University.

What to do in an earthquake

Earthquakes’ sudden, rapid shaking can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. They can happen anywhere, but they’re most common in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico and Washington, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

If an earthquake strikes, it’s best to protect yourself right away. Here are tips from experts:

• If you’re in a car: Pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.

• If you’re in bed: Turn face-down and cover your head with a pillow.

• If you’re outdoors: Stay away from buildings. Don’t go inside.

• If you’re inside: Stay and don’t run outdoors. Stay away from doorways.

The best way to protect yourself during an earthquake is to drop, cover and hold on, officials say.

“Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy,” officials say. “If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.”

Be sure to cover your head and neck with your arms, and crawl under a sturdy table if possible. If no shelter is available, crawl to an interior wall away from windows.

Once under a table, officials say you should hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it.

“There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines,” officials say. “Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.”