URGENT UPDATE: A magnitude 4.0 earthquake rattled the Bay Area at 3:30 p.m. today, just three miles from Santa Rosa, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. This was swiftly followed by a magnitude 3.1 aftershock just eight minutes later at 3:38 p.m., occurring two miles from the city.
The larger quake struck at a depth of 1.2 miles, while the aftershock was recorded at a depth of 1.4 miles. The epicenter of the 4.0 quake was located four miles from Petaluma, seven miles from Sonoma, and 13 miles from Napa. The 3.1 aftershock was felt five miles from Petaluma, eight miles from Sonoma, and 13 miles from Windsor.
Residents are urged to stay alert as this seismic activity could lead to further tremors. In the past ten days, there has already been one earthquake of magnitude 3.0 or greater in the vicinity. California typically sees an average of 25 earthquakes with magnitudes between 4.0 and 5.0 each year.
Did you feel the tremors? Consider reporting your experience to the USGS to assist in data collection and analysis. It’s vital to stay prepared for potential aftershocks and other seismic events. Subscribe to our Unshaken newsletter for essential earthquake preparedness tips broken down into manageable steps over six weeks. Learn more about earthquake kits, crucial apps, and expert advice from seismologist Lucy Jones at latimes.com/Unshaken.
This news was generated by Quakebot, a computer application that monitors seismic activity detected by the USGS, and reviewed by a Times editor for accuracy. For more detailed information on the earthquake and safety measures, stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
