Portland, OR – A magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck off the coast of Oregon on Wednesday. The earthquake hit around 3:24 p.m. Pacific Time, with the epicenter located approximately 250 kilometers from the coast.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the quake originated 13.5 kilometers beneath the ocean’s surface. Though moderate, tremors were reported across the coastal areas. USGS is asking residents to submit “Did You Feel It?” reports through its online portal to help map out the quake’s reach and intensity.
While no significant damage has been reported, residents in nearby coastal towns felt brief shaking. Local authorities encourage residents to remain alert for aftershocks, although none have been predicted at this time.
Seismologists say that quakes of this magnitude are not uncommon in the region. The offshore Cascadia Subduction Zone is a known hotspot for seismic activity. If you experienced the earthquake, consider contributing your observations to the USGS as part of its citizen science efforts.
