Sacramento Shakes After Nearby 5.8 Magnitude Earthquake!

Sacramento Shakes After Nearby Earthquake!

Sacramento, Calif. — Did you feel that? If you were in Sacramento or the surrounding areas this afternoon, you might have experienced some unexpected excitement as a preliminary magnitude 5.8 earthquake took place near Yerington, Nevada. The quake registered between 5.5 and 5.8 on the Richter scale and struck right around 3:10 p.m. Yes, you heard that right—a little tremor that made its way down here, 50 miles east of Carson City, Nevada!

Felt It Far and Wide

A number of folks from Reno, Roseville, and even our own fabulous Sacramento reported feeling the shaking. Thankfully, there are currently no immediate reports regarding any damage. Phew! But if you’re curious about the extent of the shake, a handy map detailing where the earthquake was likely felt is right at your fingertips.

A Different Kind of Shake

Many might have noticed that the sensation of this quake felt a bit distinct compared to that significant earthquake off the North Coast just last week. But what caused this difference? Well, Dr. Angie Lux, with UC Berkeley’s Earthquake Early Warning Project, explained that since last week’s quake was quite a bit farther away, the predominant movement people felt was slow, long waves traveling a longer distance. Contrast that with the more rapid shaking and back-and-forth motions, which tend to attenuate or fade out more quickly. Isn’t it fascinating how the geography can change the experience?

Quake Patterns: What to Expect

The recent quake comes on the heels of California’s own impressive earthquake measuring a hefty M7, still fresh in our memories. Dr. Lux pointed out that the geography surrounding Nevada tends to result in smaller earthquakes compared to California. “In Nevada, western Nevada is experiencing an extensional zone,” she said, meaning that area is stretching apart in the crust. Typically, states like Nevada do not see the larger earthquakes we might expect here in California. A magnitude of around 6 is generally what’s expected in that region.

Keeping the Calm After the Quake

Now, don’t go hiding under your bed just yet! This earthquake would be classified as a moderate one for folks in California. That’s important to remember for all you anxious folks out there. And speaking of aftershocks, hold onto your hats! There have already been several detected following the quake. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, there’s a 14% chance that one or more aftershocks larger than a magnitude of 5 could rock the area within the next week. So, let’s keep our fingers crossed while hoping they stay benign!

Are You Prepared?

Now that we’ve had a little excitement, it’s a great reminder for everyone to assess their earthquake preparedness. It’s surprising how little we think about being ready for a disaster until something shakes us up! A few years ago, the 2019 earthquake near Ridgecrest made people take notice and understand just how vital it is to have a disaster kit and an emergency plan in place. Taking some time now to get organized could make all the difference when the next tremor hits.

Stay Safe, Stay Informed!

As we wrap up this quick update on the shake in Sacramento, remember that earth tremors can hit without warning. We hope you all stay safe and possibly take a moment to double-check that emergency kit. Adventure awaits in every corner of life—even when it comes from Mother Nature!