Earthquakes Rattle Northwest Louisiana

A 4.9-magnitude quake hits near Coushatta, the largest inland earthquake on record in the state.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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A 4.9-magnitude earthquake struck portions of northwest Louisiana on Thursday morning, briefly shaking residents in the Simsboro, Dubach, and Ruston areas. The U.S. Geological Survey recorded three quakes in the region, with the largest breaking the state's previous inland earthquake record of 4.1 set in 1930. No damage was reported, but the tremors were felt within a 75-90 mile radius.

Why it matters

While minor earthquakes are not uncommon in Louisiana, an event of this magnitude is rare for the region and highlights the potential for seismic activity, even in areas not typically associated with significant earthquake risk. The incident serves as a reminder for residents to be prepared for the possibility of future quakes.

The details

According to the USGS, the 4.9-magnitude quake was centered about 3 miles underground just northwest of the town of Edgefield. In addition, a 2.9-magnitude quake occurred 3.7 miles north-northwest of Edgefield, and a 2.2-magnitude quake was located 6.8 miles west-northwest of the town. The USGS has recorded over 1,000 reports of people feeling the tremors across northwest Louisiana and east Texas.

  • The earthquakes occurred around 5:30 AM on Thursday, March 6, 2026.
  • The 4.9-magnitude quake was initially rated at 4.4 but was later upgraded by the USGS after further analysis.

The players

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)

The federal agency responsible for monitoring and reporting on earthquake activity in the United States.

Captain J. Moseley

Spokesman for the Red River Sheriff's Office, who noted that small earthquakes have been reported in the area over the past several years.

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What they’re saying

“Right now, the most important thing is for everyone should to remain calm. Situations like this can be unsettling.”

— Captain J. Moseley, Spokesman, Red River Sheriff's Office (lincolnparishjournal.com)

What’s next

The USGS predicts a 31% chance of an aftershock in the Coushatta area over the next week.

The takeaway

This earthquake serves as a reminder that seismic activity, while rare in Louisiana, can still occur and that residents should be prepared for the possibility of future quakes, even in areas not typically associated with significant seismic risk.