Propelled by activity gains in the Haynesville Shale and Permian Basin, the U.S. rig count posted double-digit growth for a second straight week in the latest tally from oilfield services provider Baker Hughes Co. (BKR).

shale

Including increases of six natural gas-directed rigs and four oil-directed units, the combined U.S. count jumped 10 units higher to 645 for the week ended Friday (Feb. 18). That follows a 22-rig surge in the week-earlier period. The 645 active U.S. rigs as of Friday represented a 248-rig year/year increase, according to the BKR numbers, which are partly based on data from Enverus.

Land drilling rose by 13 units week/week, partially offset by a four-rig decline in the Gulf of Mexico for the period. One rig was added in inland waters for the week. Horizontal...