2.4-Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near Pismo Beach, No Damage Reported

A 2.4-magnitude earthquake was reported in San Luis Obispo County on Sunday, December 14, 2025, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

The earthquake struck at 6:27 p.m. PT, about 7 kilometers north-northeast of Pismo Beach in San Luis Obispo County, at a depth of -0.3 kilometers, the agency said.

The USGS received 22 mentions of “felt report” on its website. No injuries or damage were reported due to the quake.

According to the USGS, earthquakes with magnitudes of 3 or higher are typically felt by people and may resemble the vibration of a passing truck. Smaller earthquakes may also be felt, depending on factors such as depth, distance, and ground conditions.

San Luis Obispo County has experienced several small earthquakes in recent days. On December 13, a 1.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded about 8 kilometers west of Templeton at a depth of 5.4 kilometers, according to the USGS.

A day earlier, on December 12, another 1.2-magnitude earthquake was recorded in the same area at a depth of 5.7 kilometers, generating one felt report on the USGS website. Later that day, a 3.5-magnitude earthquake occurred at a depth of 5.1 kilometers.

According to the USGS, approximately 500,000 earthquakes are detected worldwide each year, though only about 100,000 are felt and roughly 100 cause damage.

The earthquake magnitude is measured through the size of the quake and remains the same regardless of the location. However, intensity is measured by how strong the shaking feels and can vary depending on distance from the epicenter. 

The epicenter refers to the point on the Earth’s surface directly above where the earthquake begins.

In case of strong earthquakes, the aftershocks can continue for months, leading to more earthquakes of different magnitudes due to the Earth’s crust adjustments. 

Earthquake Safety Precautions

During an earthquake, certain app alerts like MyShake can help to plan. When the earthquake begins, drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on, as mentioned by the California Earthquake Authority.

Additionally, stay away from windows and heavy objects that may fall. If in bed, protect the head and neck with a pillow.

Stay indoors and avoid going on roads, and in case outside, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines. 

If driving, pull over safely and remain in the vehicle. Avoid elevators and use stairs in such situations.