Early this morning, a 5.0 magnitude earthquake shook the Pacific Coast, catching many residents off guard. The quake hit at 4:15 AM PST, with its epicenter located about 30 miles west of Crescent City, California, and a depth of 10 miles.
Felt the Shake? You’re Not Alone.
For people living along the coast, the tremor was hard to miss. “I thought a big truck was passing by until my whole house started shaking,” said one Crescent City resident. Others reported hearing strange rumbling noises and feeling their furniture move.
Fortunately, there have been no reports of serious damage or injuries so far. But the experience left many wondering: What’s next?
What You Should Know About Aftershocks
Experts at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) say aftershocks are common after a quake like this. These smaller tremors may not be as strong, but they can still be unsettling—or even cause minor damage if structures are already weakened.
If you felt the earthquake, here’s what to do:
- Inspect your home: Look for cracks in walls, broken pipes, or anything that might have shifted out of place.
- Stay prepared: Aftershocks can happen hours or even days later, so make sure your emergency supplies are stocked.
- Keep updated: Follow news from local authorities and USGS for the latest developments.
A Reminder for the Pacific Coast
This earthquake wasn’t huge, but it’s a reminder of the risks that come with living near the Cascadia Subduction Zone—one of the most earthquake-prone areas in the U.S. Even a relatively small quake like this can catch people off guard, so it’s always a good idea to stay ready.
How to Stay Safe
Earthquakes don’t come with warnings, but you can prepare for them:
- Keep a basic emergency kit with food, water, and flashlights.
- Know the safest spots in your home, like under sturdy furniture.
- Talk with your family about what to do during and after a quake.
What’s Next?
Thankfully, this morning’s quake seems to have caused little more than a scare. Take this as a chance to double-check your preparedness—because in an earthquake-prone area, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Stay safe out there, and keep an eye out for updates from local officials!