BREAKING: A magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck just three miles from Santa Rosa at 3:30 p.m. on July 15, 2023, sending shockwaves through the Bay Area. Just eight minutes later, a magnitude 3.1 aftershock rattled the region, recorded at 3:38 p.m., highlighting ongoing seismic activity in Northern California.
The initial tremor occurred at a depth of approximately 1.2 miles, while the aftershock registered at a depth of 1.4 miles. The larger quake was detected four miles from Petaluma, seven miles from Sonoma, and 13 miles from Napa. The subsequent shake was five miles from Petaluma and eight miles from Sonoma, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Residents across the Bay Area are urged to assess their safety and preparedness following these events. In the last 10 days, there has been one other earthquake of magnitude 3.0 or greater in the vicinity, with an average of 25 earthquakes between magnitudes 4.0 to 5.0 occurring each year in California and Nevada.
Local officials are actively monitoring the situation. Community members are encouraged to report their experiences to the USGS, which helps improve seismic understanding and safety measures.
What’s Next? Stay alert for any further seismic activity, as the region may experience additional aftershocks. Residents should ensure their emergency plans are in place and familiarize themselves with earthquake safety protocols.
For ongoing updates and emergency preparedness tips, consider signing up for the Unshaken newsletter. This resource provides essential steps to keep you and your family safe in the event of an earthquake.
As the Bay Area grapples with these tremors, it is crucial for everyone to stay informed and prepared. Share your experiences and insights about these earthquakes to foster community resilience in the face of natural disasters.
