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A rare magnitude 4.1 earthquake shook homes near the Nebraska–Kansas border Sunday afternoon, surprising residents across the area. The quake happened at 1:59 p.m. CST, about 3 miles east of Cowles, Nebraska. The epicenter was in Webster County, just north of the Kansas state line, an area not known for frequent earthquakes.

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) received reports of shaking from towns in north central Kansas, including Smith Center and Mankato, as well as Nebraska communities like Red Cloud, Superior, and Blue Hill. People reported light indoor shaking, rattling dishes, and brief vibrations in homes and businesses.

The USGS said the quake posed a low risk of serious damage. There’s about a 5% chance of a smaller aftershock in the next week, but stronger quakes are unlikely. Officials advise residents to check for small cracks and secure heavy items.