UPDATE: Two earthquakes rattled the Bay Area near Santa Rosa on October 29, 2023, sending shockwaves through the region. A magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck at 3:30 PM, just three miles from Santa Rosa, followed by a magnitude 3.1 quake at 3:38 PM, located two miles from the city, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Residents felt the tremors across nearby cities, including Petaluma, Sonoma, and Napa. The larger quake occurred four miles from Petaluma, seven miles from Sonoma, and 13 miles from Napa. The second quake was recorded five miles from Petaluma, eight miles from Sonoma, and 13 miles from Windsor.
Authorities confirm both earthquakes struck at relatively shallow depths: the magnitude 4.0 quake was at 1.2 miles, while the 3.1 tremor occurred at a depth of 1.4 miles. This seismic activity marks a significant event, as there has been only one earthquake of magnitude 3.0 or greater in the area in the past ten days.
Why This Matters NOW: Earthquakes like these serve as a reminder of the seismic risks in California, which experiences an average of 25 earthquakes annually with magnitudes between 4.0 and 5.0. Residents are urged to stay vigilant and prepared, especially as aftershocks can occur following significant seismic events.
The USGS encourages anyone who felt the earthquakes to report their experiences. Residents can also enhance their preparedness by signing up for the Unshaken newsletter, which provides essential tips on emergency readiness over six weeks.
As officials monitor the situation, residents are advised to check for updates and remain aware of their surroundings. Further information about earthquake kits, mobile applications, and safety procedures can be found at latimes.com/Unshaken.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. Have you felt the tremors? Share your experience on social media and help others stay informed about this urgent situation.
