2.2 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near Goleta

A 2.2 magnitude earthquake struck near Goleta on Sunday, October 5, 2025.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported that the tremor occurred at 9:11 a.m., with the epicenter located about 1 mile west-northwest of Goleta and at a depth of just 2 miles.

The magnitude was initially reported as 2.1 but was later upgraded to 2.2.

This follows a 2.7 magnitude earthquake that struck off the coast of Isla Vista in July. The USGS reported that the quake occurred about 6 miles south-southeast of Isla Vista at a depth of 6 miles in the Santa Barbara Channel.

According to USGS, an earthquake typically needs to be above 3.0 magnitude for most people to “feel” it.

Why are Earthquakes so Frequent in California?

California experiences frequent earthquakes because it lies near the boundary of the Pacific and North American tectonic plates. These plates constantly move and grind against each other. This ongoing movement builds up stress in the Earth’s crust, eventually releasing as seismic activity.

Seismic activity is more frequent in California because of the state’s extensive fault system, which includes the well-known San Andreas Fault. About two-thirds of the motion between the two plates occurs along the San Andreas Fault alone, which also frequently causes large earthquakes.

In addition, the state is rife with innumerable minor faults that frequently produce mild tremors.

Throughout its history, California has experienced several earthquakes, often connected to the broader seismic activity in the tectonically active Inland Empire region.

During the first week of October 2025, California reported several small to moderate earthquakes.

Some of the earthquakes reported in October 2025:

• Magnitude 3.3: Near Big Bear City on October 5.
• Magnitude 3.2: Near Apple Valley in San Bernardino County on October 4.
• Magnitude 2.5: Near Big Bear City on October 5.
• Magnitude 2.2: Near Goleta on October 5.
• Magnitude 2.0: Near Borrego Springs on October 5.
• Magnitude 1.1: Several small earthquakes were reported in California and Nevada on October 4.

What Precautions does the Government Take During Earthquakes?

According to Ready.gov, an official website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, earthquakes can happen anywhere without warning. High-risk areas include Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington and the entire Mississippi River Valley.

Important Earthquake Safety Precautions

• When an earthquake starts, Drop, Cover, and Hold On, and keep your emergency preparedness kit close
• Get down on the ground under a table or desk.
• Stay away from windows, as glass may shatter
• Never stand under objects that could fall, such as bookcases.
• If you are in bed, cover your head and neck with pillows.
• If you are home, do not go outside. Stay off the roads.
• If you are outside, move away from buildings that can collapse. Stay in an open area where there are no trees, buildings, or power lines.
• If you are driving when an earthquake strikes, pull over to a large open area that’s not under trees or power lines. Set the parking brake. Stay in the vehicle.
• If you’re at school, work, or any shopping area, avoid elevators. Take the stairs.