Magnitude 3.1 Earthquake Shakes Area Near The Geysers in Northern California

A magnitude 3.1 earthquake was recorded in Northern California on Wednesday night, March 4, 2026.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), the quake occurred around 8:23 p.m. PT near The Geysers at a depth of 3.2 kilometers. The epicenter was located about 5 kilometers west-northwest of The Geysers.

No damage or injuries have been due to the earthquake.

According to the USGS “Did You Feel It?” reporting system, 27 people submitted responses, with the quake categorized as Level II, indicating weak but noticeable shaking.

The quake was reportedly felt in nearby communities including Cobb, Anderson Springs, and Middletown, located roughly 8 to 17 kilometers from the epicenter.

Several Smaller Earthquakes Recorded

The USGS also detected several smaller earthquakes in the region throughout the day, reflecting continued low-level seismic activity.

A series of smaller earthquakes were recorded in the region seconds after the larger tremor. About six quakes measured below magnitude 2.0.

These smaller quakes are common in regions with active fault systems and geothermal activity and are typically too weak to cause damage.

Smaller earthquakes occurring near a larger event are typically described as either foreshocks or aftershocks.

A foreshock is a smaller earthquake that occurs before a larger quake in the same location. However, an event can only be identified as a foreshock after a stronger earthquake occurs in the area.

An aftershock, by contrast, is a smaller tremor that follows a larger earthquake known as the mainshock. Aftershocks typically occur in the same fault zone and may continue for days, months, or even years as the Earth’s crust gradually adjusts.

Earthquakes in California

California experiences frequent earthquakes because it sits along the boundary between two major tectonic plates: the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate. The Pacific Plate slowly moves northwestward past the North American Plate.

The primary boundary between these plates is the San Andreas Fault system, which stretches for more than 650 miles across California and extends deep beneath the surface. Over time, gradual plate movement builds pressure along faults, which is released during earthquakes.

Because this movement is constant, small earthquakes are common across many parts of California, including the Bay Area. Most are minor and pass quickly.