Preliminary 2.7 Magnitude Earthquake Reported Near San Leandro With Residents Feeling Light Shaking
An earthquake with a preliminary magnitude of 2.7 shook the East Bay of California Thursday evening, causing a brief but noticeable shaking throughout the region. The quake happened around 5:52 p.m. and was centred about 1.1 miles north-northeast of San Leandro, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) said. There were no immediate reports of injuries or major damage, but officials said the event remained under review as more seismic data became available.
Earthquake Shakes Multiple East Bay Communities
Though relatively small, the quake was felt in San Leandro, Oakland, Hayward, Castro Valley and surrounding communities. Many reported a sudden jolt, and then light shaking for only a few seconds. Residents also said they heard a low rumble before the shaking, which is common in shallow earthquakes. The epicentre was close to populated areas so even a minor earthquake was felt by thousands of people throughout the East Bay.
5.1 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near Miami Texas as USGS Reports Shaking Across the RegionWhy a 2.7 Magnitude Earthquake Can Be Felt
Earthquakes with magnitudes between 2.5 and 5.4 are generally strong enough to be felt by people living near the epicentre but usually do not cause major structural damage. How much shaking you feel depends on a number of things — the depth of the earthquake, the distance from the epicentre and local ground conditions. Here, the shallow depth and proximity to urban neighbourhoods made the tremor more noticeable than the magnitude alone would suggest.
No Immediate Word of Damage
There were no reports of injuries, road closures or damage to buildings or infrastructure in the latest updates from local authorities. The earthquake data is preliminary and the magnitude, depth and exact location could be changed as more seismic analysis is completed, the USGS said. Emergency officials are still watching the situation but have not issued any public safety alerts about the event.
Remember to be earthquake prepared
Thursday’s quake was minor but it serves as another reminder that the San Francisco Bay Area is one of the most seismically active regions in the United States. Experts say small earthquakes are common, and encourage people to use these events as a way to review earthquake preparedness plans. Residents are being urged to have emergency supplies, to secure heavy furniture and to know where safe places are to take cover during stronger quakes. Anyone who felt the shaking can also file a “ Did You Feel It? ” report with the USGS , which helps scientists better understand how the earthquake was experienced throughout the region.
And now what?
Scientists will continue to analyse the seismic data over the next few hours and may update the preliminary details of the earthquake if necessary. Unless aftershocks are experienced or other information comes to light, the event is likely to remain a minor seismic event with little or no long-term impact.
Sources
US Geological Survey (USGS) – Official seismic data including preliminary 2.7 magnitude, date and time of earthquake, epicentre location, updated earthquake information.
NBC Bay Area – A light shaker was felt throughout San Leandro and other East Bay communities with no initial reports of significant damage or injuries, according to local news reports.
Earthquake Path – More earthquake information, including depth, location and public “Did You Feel It?” reports, from USGS data.
Sacramento Bee – Information on how earthquakes in the 2.5–5.4 magnitude range are typically felt and why such events are generally non-damaging.
