What changed for residents: A minor earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 3.5 shook Central California early Thursday, centered about 10 miles northwest of Pinnacles, the U.S. Geological Survey reported. The agency recorded the temblor at 7:49 a.m. Pacific and said aftershocks have been detected in the same area.
Where and how strong
The U.S.G.S. placed the epicenter roughly 10 miles northwest of Pinnacles, Calif. Data published by the agency lists the event as magnitude 3.5, a size that the U.S.G.S. classifies as generally "weak" on shaking intensity.
"weak"
The U.S.G.S. advises that seismologists may revise an earthquake’s reported magnitude as they review additional data, and that updated information can change shake-severity maps.
Aftershocks and what to expect
Officials reported subsequent smaller quakes in the same vicinity. Such events are typically aftershocks — minor adjustments on the portion of a fault that slipped during the initial temblor. Aftershocks can occur for days, weeks or even longer after the first quake and occasionally can be as large as or larger than the initial event.
- Initial report: magnitude 3.5 at 7:49 a.m. Pacific, about 10 miles northwest of Pinnacles.
- Aftershocks: detected in the same area; timelines and magnitudes subject to updates by U.S.G.S.
- Revisions possible: seismologists may change magnitude or shake maps as more data are analyzed.
Practical information for residents
Residents who felt shaking should check for damage to structures, fallen objects, gas smells or water leaks and report any significant hazards to local authorities. The U.S.G.S. provides updated maps and data online; local emergency management offices post guidance for homeowners and businesses after seismic events.
Because aftershocks can follow, authorities recommend securing heavy furniture and reviewing family emergency plans. If you smell gas, leave the area and contact your utility provider and emergency services.
| Detail | Reported |
|---|---|
| Preliminary magnitude | 3.5 |
| Time (Pacific) | 7:49 a.m. |
| Approximate location | 10 miles NW of Pinnacles, Calif. |
The U.S.G.S. is the primary source for location, magnitude and aftershock tracking. Local officials and emergency response agencies will post advisories if there are changes in damage assessments or risk to the public.
— Reporting based on preliminary U.S.G.S. data and post-event notices. Further updates may alter initial figures and maps.
