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California Earthquake: 3.8 Magnitude Tremor Strikes Mendocino Fracture Zone
California experienced another earthquake on Wednesday, following a significant 5.2 magnitude earthquake event just days prior. The latest seismic activity highlights ongoing earthquake concerns in the region. This 3.8 magnitude tremor, detected by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), occurred along the Mendocino Fracture Zone, a major geological feature off the northern California coast.
Mendocino Fracture Zone Earthquake
According to the USGS, the 3.8 magnitude earthquake was recorded around 8am PT (11am ET). The epicenter was located along the Mendocino Fracture Zone, a seismically active region known for its potential to generate substantial earthquakes.
Scientists have issued warnings concerning the Mendocino Fault’s capacity to produce powerful earthquakes, potentially reaching magnitude 7 or greater.
Earthquake Location and Recent Seismic Activity
The USGS reported that the recent tremor struck off the coast of Petrolia in Humboldt County. This area has been subject to considerable seismic activity; in the preceding 24 hours, dozens of smaller earthquakes, below magnitude 2.5, were recorded.
Southern California Earthquake Precedes Latest Event
This seismic event follows an earthquake that impacted Southern California on Monday. That earlier earthquake was widely felt, with over 40,000 residents reporting sensations, and prompted emergency alerts.

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Residents received alerts stating, ‘Earthquake Detected! Drop, Cover, Hold On. Protect Yourself,’ emphasizing safety measures during seismic events.
The epicenter of Monday’s earthquake was located 2.49 miles south of Julian, as determined by the USGS.
This is a developing story; further updates will be provided as they become available.
The US Geological Survey (USGS) identified a 3.8 magnitude earthquake along the Mendocino Fault, a major geological feature off the coast of northern California.
Mendocino Fracture Zone Details
The Mendocino Fracture Zone is situated in the eastern Pacific Ocean, near Cape Mendocino, stretching for approximately 2,500 miles. This fault zone previously triggered a significant 7.0 magnitude earthquake in December 2024, resulting in a tsunami warning and causing public concern.
The December earthquake occurred at 10:44am (1pm ET), approximately 45 miles off the coast of Eureka, with aftershocks felt as far away as San Francisco. The tsunami warning associated with that event was canceled by 12pm (3pm ET) after initial assessments.
Magnitude and Potential Impact
In contrast, Wednesday’s 3.8 magnitude earthquake was not sufficiently powerful to generate a tsunami.
Michigan Tech University assessments indicate that earthquakes below magnitude 2.5 are generally not felt by people. Earthquakes ranging from 2.5 to 5.4 are frequently perceptible and may cause minor damage.
Given that the recent earthquake occurred off the coast, the likelihood of injuries or significant damage remains low.
Impact of Southern California Earthquake
Monday’s earthquake in Southern California was reported felt by over 40,000 individuals.
The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department stated that no immediate reports of injuries or property damage were received following Monday’s event.
However, the California Department of Transportation reported instances of rocks falling onto State Route 76, east of E Grade Road, and advised motorists to be vigilant for road debris.
A local news report featured an interview with a man who recounted bottles being thrown from shelves at Mountain Spirits Liquor in Julian when the earthquake struck.