SILVER SPRINGS, NV – A moderate earthquake centered near Silver Springs shook much of western Nevada and northern California on Monday evening.
The seismic event was felt by thousands of residents from Carson City to Sacramento as a cluster of aftershocks began to swarm the region. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the magnitude 5.5 earthquake occurred at 6:29 p.m. at a depth of approximately 13.1 kilometers. The epicenter was located roughly 20 kilometers east-southeast of Silver Springs, sending noticeable tremors through the Lahontan State Recreation Area and surrounding communities.
According to data provided by the USGS and the Nevada Seismological Laboratory, the main tremor reached a maximum intensity of VII on the Modified Mercalli scale, which is characterized by “very strong” shaking. Despite the intensity, the PAGER assessment remains under a “green” alert, indicating a low probability of significant fatalities or major economic damage.
Following the initial quake, a swarm of at least a dozen aftershocks was recorded within the first hour. According to the University of Nevada, Reno, these secondary tremors have ranged in magnitude from 2.6 to 3.7. The USGS aftershock forecast currently estimates an 87% chance of a magnitude 3.0 or higher aftershock occurring within the next week, while the likelihood of a larger magnitude 6.0 event remains low at approximately 2%.
Local authorities in Carson City and Lyon County have not yet reported any significant structural damage or injuries. Residents are advised to stay alert as the earthquake swarm continues and to follow standard “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” procedures during subsequent shaking.
