3.7 Magnitude Earthquake Hits California, Intensifying State’s Wildfire Crisis

A 3.7 magnitude earthquake rocked California on Friday morning, exacerbating the state’s ongoing struggles with severe wildfires.

The tremor, which occurred at 7:02 AM PT, was centered near the San Francisco Bay Area, about five miles southwest of the Golden Gate Bridge and two miles west of the Great Highway. The earthquake was followed by a 2.2 magnitude aftershock four minutes later and a 2.5 magnitude tremor six minutes afterward. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), more than 5,000 people in the area reported feeling the quake, and the number of reports is still rising.

The seismic event happened approximately 350 miles from the Los Angeles area, where wildfires have caused widespread damage. In Los Angeles, at least 10 people have died, and 180,000 residents have been forced to evacuate. Over 10,000 buildings have been destroyed, and nearly 30,000 acres of land have been scorched.

Mayor Daniel Lurie commented on the ongoing situation, saying, “I ordered city government into action immediately this morning, and our first responders have been out across the city ensuring the safety of our residents. We have also been sharing information and giving people the tools to protect themselves and their families in an event like this.”

Despite the tremors, no injuries or damage were reported from the earthquake.

The USGS had also detected a 3.0 magnitude earthquake the day before, less than 100 miles from Friday’s epicenter, with smaller quakes occurring earlier in the week.

The earthquake disrupted San Francisco’s Muni subway service, with locals sharing their experiences on X. Nadia Rahman posted, “I just felt the most significant earthquake I’ve personally experienced in San Francisco.”

While the shaking was strong, many reported that it only lasted a second.

California is no stranger to earthquakes, but experts warn that the region is overdue for a massive quake along the San Andreas Fault. Predictions suggest an earthquake of 8.0 magnitude or higher could cause 1,800 deaths and up to $200 billion in damages.

Amidst these challenges, Los Angeles continues to battle intense wildfires, including the Kenneth Fire, which was reportedly started by an arsonist who has since been arrested. To prevent looting, nighttime curfews have been enforced. The devastation remains widespread, with entire blocks of Pacific Palisades and Malibu reduced to rubble.

The fires, fueled by strong winds, are expected to be alleviated by calmer weather later in the day.