Methane gas blamed for vibrating houses

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Numerous people in Central Texas awoke to vibrations in the neighborhood, stumping local law enforcement for some time.

Several KXAN News viewers in Austin called Sunday morning after vibrations in a Northeast Austin neighborhood awoke people.

A flare that burns off residual methane gas, which is a by-product of the landfill, may have been damaged by overnight storms seen in the area. Authorities said the flare never posed any threat.

In a statement to the media, fire officials said they believe the source of the strange rumblings can be traced to the Sunset Farms Landfill at 9912 Giles Road.

Rick Kieffer lives In the Harris Branch subdivision and said he woke up around 7:30 a.m. to the back of his house vibrating. Kieffer said two of his neighbors said they were also experiencing the same unusual, constant rumblings.

Another KXAN News viewer named Mariano said he’s felt the vibrations since at least 9:30 a.m.

At least one person said she experienced the odd vibrations Saturday when her husband awoke to vibrations coming from the window. Elaine Perkins said Sunday morning she was awakened again, this time by vibrating doors in her home.

Thus-far, all instances of the mysterious vibrations have been reported in the Harris Branch subdivision.