On the afternoon of January 13, 2026, a magnitude 4.4 earthquake rattled Northern California, sending tremors across a wide stretch of the region.
The quake, which occurred at 4:10 PM ET, was felt for miles, affecting areas far beyond its epicenter.
Location and Impact
The earthquake’s epicenter was located between the towns of Willits and Ukiah, approximately 120 miles north of San Francisco.
While not an exceptionally powerful quake, it managed to send seismic waves far and wide, with effects reaching as far as the San Francisco Bay Area.
The tremors were light but noticeable, moving up and down the coast.
This quake followed a typical pattern for California, a region known for frequent seismic activity.
The quake’s shallow depth, around five miles beneath the earth’s surface, likely contributed to the stronger shaking at ground level, making it more noticeable to those in the vicinity.
Aftershocks and Seismic Activity
In the immediate aftermath, two smaller tremors were recorded: a 1.7 magnitude tremor at 4:16 PM, followed by another, slightly weaker 1.5 magnitude shake at 4:21 PM.
These aftershocks are common following larger quakes and serve as reminders of the ongoing seismic activity in the region.
The area around the epicenter is known for its tectonic activity, sitting near the Maacama Fault, which runs through Northern California.
Although the fault is active, this earthquake didn’t trigger any major concerns about a larger, more destructive event.
No Major Damage or Injuries Reported
Despite the noticeable shaking, early reports indicate that the quake didn’t cause significant damage.
Local authorities have yet to confirm any injuries, and there have been no reports of structural damage in the affected areas.
Residents in the nearby towns experienced moderate shaking, but overall, the earthquake was considered manageable.
The Earthquake’s Place in California’s Seismic Landscape
While a 4.4 magnitude quake isn’t extraordinarily large, it’s a reminder of the seismic hazards that regularly affect California.
The state is known for its earthquakes, with many of its cities and towns sitting on or near major fault lines, such as the Maacama Fault.
For Californians, quakes are a part of life, and the ability to respond quickly is crucial.
As of now, the situation remains stable, but seismologists will continue monitoring the region for any additional aftershocks or shifts in tectonic activity.
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