Are earthquakes increasing? What you need to know about earthquake frequency.
Are earthquakes occurring more frequently and becoming more severe? Here’s what we know now.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, a magnitude 5.6 earthquake struck northern California on the morning of Wednesday, June 24, triggering warnings throughout the Bay Area.
The quake was recorded at 8:10 a.m. Pacific time just over nine miles from Redwood Valley and was felt by people throughout the region, according to the USGS.
It was not immediately clear if anyone was injured or if any damage was reported. The depth of the quake was 13.1 miles, according to data provided by the USGS.
Redwood Valley is located in Mendocino County, approximately 120 miles north of San Francisco.
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office confirmed in a social media post that the governor has been briefed on the earthquake.
“The Governor’s Office is working closely with emergency officials to assess potential impacts and damage,” the governor’s office said in a statement.
Shortly thereafter, another small magnitude 2.5 earthquake occurred in Redwood Valley. As of 9 a.m. Pacific time, officials said no tsunami was expected.
Earthquake scale
According to Michigan Technological University, the effects of earthquakes of various magnitudes are:
- Less than 2.5: Usually not felt
- 2.5 to 5.4: Minor damage or no damage
- 5.5 to 6.0: Minor damage to building.
- 6.1 to 6.9: Severe damage
- 7.0-7.9: Major earthquake, severe damage
- 8.0 and above: Can cause significant damage and destroy communities
This is a developing story.
Natalie Neisa Alland is a senior reporter at USA TODAY. Contact her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her at X @nataliealund.
