San Benito County, CA – A light earthquake struck near Pinnacles National Park early Wednesday, shaking parts of central California with a preliminary magnitude of 3.2, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
The quake occurred at 2:46 a.m. local time (09:46 UTC) about 7 kilometers northwest of Pinnacles National Park, near the San Benito–Monterey County line. It originated at a depth of 7.1 kilometers, the California Integrated Seismic Network (CISN) reported.
Initial data show the quake was centered in a seismically active section of the San Andreas Fault system, which runs along the eastern edge of Pinnacles National Park. Two “Did You Feel It?” responses were logged as of Wednesday morning, with residents reporting mild shaking and no damage.
Local officials have not issued any alerts or warnings. Earthquakes of this size are common in this region, which frequently experiences small to moderate tremors due to its proximity to several fault strands.
Communities that may have felt light shaking include San Benito, Paicines, and Hollister. Experts say the quake serves as a reminder for residents to review emergency kits and preparedness plans.
