Those in the Esterhazy, Sask. area may have had a startling wake-up call this morning, as a tremor was reported in the area. According to Earthquakes Canada, the 3.4 magnitude tremor was reported at 7:04 a.m. CST Tuesday. CTV News received several reports from viewers in the area, describing what felt like a strong earthquake Tuesday morning that shook whole houses. At a depth of a kilometre and reported around nine kilometres northeast of the community, Earthquakes Canada classified the incident as “suspected” to be mining-related. Mosaic, which operates its K1, K2 and K3 potash facilities near Esterhazy, confirmed seismic activity was felt at its facilities. According to the company, the event occurred in a mined out area of its K3 mine. All employees are accounted for and all safety checks and inspections have been completed. Seismic activity is semi-common in the Esterhazy area. Since 1985, 49 earthquakes have been reported within a 30-kilometre radius of the community. Of those incidents, all have been classified as related to industry or mining operations in the area, according to data from Earthquakes Canada. Mosaic reiterated this fact in its statement. “Mining induced seismic activity in this area is common, and our facilities are engineered with seismic loading in mind,” the company wrote. “While the recent event occurred far from current mining areas and presents no immediate safety concerns, we continue to advance our understanding of the geological properties of the K3 ore body and will work with external experts to review seismic activity.” Mosaic’s neighbours just a few minutes down the road say they are used to the ground shifting from time to time. Esterhazy Mayor Randy Bot explained the town knows what’s beneath their feet and added the community has a good relationship with the potash mines surrounding it. “Esterhazy is no stranger to seismic events. With one of the richest potash deposits beneath our feet, occasional ground movement is something our community has experienced over the years,” Bot said. “Mosaic has consistently made an effort to communicate with the town, keep us informed, and provide updates when these events occur.” According to Earthquakes Canada, Tuesday represented the first seismic activity in the Esterhazy area recorded this year. The 3.4 magnitude quake, marks the fourth consecutive event registered above a 3.0 magnitude dating back to May of 2025. Esterhazy is located around 220 kilometres east of Regina.
