Magnitude 4.2 Earthquake Strikes Bay Area, Largest in Two Years

A 4.2 magnitude earthquake near the Santa Cruz-Monterey county border occurred at 2:47 a.m. Sunday, marking the Bay Area’s largest quake in nearly two years.

In the early hours of Sunday morning, residents across the Bay Area were awakened by a magnitude 4.2 earthquake. This seismic event, which was centered near the border of Santa Cruz and Monterey counties, struck at precisely 2:47 a.m., occurring along the San Andreas Fault at a depth of 4.2 miles. The earthquake’s epicenter was located in a less populated area along Highway 129, approximately six miles east of Watsonville and seven miles south of Gilroy. This tremor is notably the most significant earthquake to affect the greater Bay Area in nearly two years.

The San Andreas Fault, a major geological feature in California, is known for frequent seismic activity. Earthquakes of magnitude 4.2 are considered moderate but can still be felt by residents, especially when they occur at shallow depths. The Bay Area, being close to this fault line, is vulnerable to such seismic events. Tracking these earthquakes is crucial for understanding seismic risks and enhancing preparedness among the residents.

In summary, the magnitude 4.2 earthquake that struck the Bay Area early Sunday morning served as a reminder of the region’s seismic activity. Centered near the Santa Cruz-Monterey county border, it was the largest earthquake in the area in two years. While the event was moderate in scale, it underscores the importance of ongoing monitoring and preparedness for residents living in earthquake-prone areas.

Original Source: www.mercurynews.com