Monterey County, CA – A magnitude 3.5 earthquake struck 9 kilometers northwest of Pinnacles on Monday afternoon, prompting light shaking reports across parts of Central California.
According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the quake occurred at 3:17 p.m. UTC (7:17 a.m. PST) at a depth of 10.9 kilometers. The epicenter was located near Pinnacles National Park, roughly southeast of Salinas and south of Hollister.
The event was automatically reviewed and recorded by the California Integrated Seismic Network. Initial data shows the tremor registered as a magnitude 3.5 on the local magnitude scale (Ml). Shaking intensity was estimated at level III on the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale, indicating weak but noticeable shaking, particularly indoors.
There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.
Earthquakes of this magnitude are generally considered minor but can be felt by residents near the epicenter. Light shaking may have been noticeable to early-morning commuters and park visitors in the Pinnacles area.
The region sits within a seismically active corridor influenced by the San Andreas Fault system. Small to moderate earthquakes are common throughout Monterey and San Benito counties.
Officials have not issued any advisories related to the quake. Residents who felt shaking can submit reports through the USGS “Did You Feel It?” system to assist scientists in refining intensity estimates.
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