Two earthquakes felt near San Antonio

Texans near San Antonio experienced a 4.5-magnitude earthquake on Wednesday night, which was felt across more than 100 miles, and in two major cities, according to U.S. Geological Survey data. The earthquake happened at 9:26 p.m. and was detected about 12 miles east-northeast from the town of Falls City. Nearly 700 people reported feeling the quake to the USGS as of the morning of January 30.

In Austin, about 100 miles north from Falls City, numerous people also reported feeling the quake. A second, smaller earthquake – a 2.6-magnitude – was detected several hours later near the 4.5 quake’s epicenter. Magnitude measures the energy released at the source of the earthquake, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, and it replaces the old Richter scale.

It is unclear if any damage or injuries have been reported.

The best way to protect yourself during an earthquake is to drop, cover and hold on, according to officials. 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. Other earthquake safety tips include:

~ If you are in a car, pull over and stop and set your parking brake.

~ If you are in bed, turn face-down and cover your head with a pillow.

~ If you are outdoors, stay away from buildings, and don’t go inside.

~ If you are inside, stay and don’t run outdoors. Stay away from doorways.