Key Takeaways:
- A magnitude 4.7 earthquake occurred in Northern California on Sunday afternoon
- The earthquake was centered 7 miles from Susanville and was felt as far east as Redding, north into Klamath Falls, Ore., and as far south as Sacramento
- Moderate shaking was reported near the quake’s epicenter, with light shaking reported in surrounding areas
- The earthquake occurred at a depth of 3.4 miles and was one of 25 earthquakes with magnitudes of 4.0 to 5.0 that occur each year in California and Nevada
- The USGS reported that there has been one earthquake of magnitude 3.0 or greater centered nearby in the last 10 days
Introduction to the Earthquake
A magnitude 4.7 earthquake shook Northern California on Sunday afternoon, causing moderate shaking near the quake’s epicenter and light shaking in surrounding areas. The temblor was reported at 4:41 p.m. and was centered 7 miles from Susanville, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). The earthquake was initially reported as a magnitude 5.0, but was later downgraded to a 4.7. The USGS also reported that the earthquake occurred at a depth of 3.4 miles, which is relatively shallow and can cause more damage than deeper earthquakes.
Location and Affected Areas
The earthquake was located 66 miles from Magalia, Calif., 68 miles from Reno, 69 miles from Paradise, Calif., and 73 miles from Chico, Calif. The quake was felt as far east as Redding, north into Klamath Falls, Ore., and as far south as Sacramento. The affected areas experienced varying levels of shaking, with moderate shaking reported near the epicenter and light shaking reported in surrounding areas. The USGS also reported that there has been one earthquake of magnitude 3.0 or greater centered nearby in the last 10 days, indicating that the region has been seismically active recently.
Earthquake Frequency and Preparedness
According to a recent three-year data sample, an average of 25 earthquakes with magnitudes of 4.0 to 5.0 occur each year in California and Nevada. This highlights the importance of earthquake preparedness in the region. The USGS encourages residents to report any earthquakes they feel to help scientists better understand the seismic activity in the area. Additionally, the Los Angeles Times offers a newsletter called Unshaken, which provides emergency preparedness tips and advice on how to stay safe during an earthquake. The newsletter breaks down emergency preparedness into bite-sized steps over six weeks and covers topics such as earthquake kits, essential apps, and expert advice from Lucy Jones.
Reporting and Response
The USGS relies on reports from residents to gather data on earthquakes and their effects. If you felt the earthquake, you can report what you experienced to the USGS. This information helps scientists to better understand the seismic activity in the area and to improve their response to future earthquakes. The USGS also provides information on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake, including tips on evacuation routes, emergency supplies, and building safety. By reporting earthquakes and staying informed, residents can help to reduce the risk of injury and damage from seismic activity.
Automated Reporting and Transparency
This story was automatically generated by Quakebot, a computer application that monitors the latest earthquakes detected by the USGS. A Times editor reviewed the post before it was published to ensure accuracy and clarity. The use of automated reporting tools like Quakebot allows for rapid dissemination of information about earthquakes, helping to keep residents informed and up-to-date. The Los Angeles Times also provides a list of frequently asked questions about the Quakebot system, which can be accessed by visiting their website. By providing transparent and accurate information, the USGS and the Los Angeles Times aim to promote earthquake awareness and preparedness in the region.