The largest quake to hit northeastern California since 2019 shook up Plumas and Lassen counties yesterday afternoon, with a second slightly smaller quake happening at 3:20 this morning. Around 4:30 yesterday, the quake struck with an epicenter located to the South West of the East shore of Lake Almanor at a magnitude of 5.5 and a shallow depth of under one mile. This morning’s shake was rated at a 5.2, with a center near the Canyon Dam boat launch. Geologist Dr. Wendy Bohon says the strength of these quakes is not uncommon for the area, with the most recent of this scale occurring in 2013.
No initial damage was reported yet, Plumas Pines Resort, whose business lies on the lake’s edge, suffered significant damage with broken bottles, plates, and glass strewn about the restaurant’s floors. They have been forced to keep thier doors closed through today to assess and clear the debris. No injuries have been reported, according to the Plumas Sheriff’s Office. However, as the shaking was significant, you are advised to check for ruptured gas pipes, cracked chimneys, and other structural damage. If you smell gas or see downed powerlines, you are to call 9-1-1 immediately.
The US Geological Survey says the region can expect to experience a high likelihood of magnitude 3 and above aftershocks through the next week.
