2.4 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near Petrolia, CA on April 1

The U.S. Geological Survey recorded a 2.4 magnitude quake early on April 1. It struck at 2:01 a.m., which was 1:01 a.m. local time. The epicenter lay about 66 miles west of Petrolia, CA, at a depth of roughly 3 miles.

People who felt the shaking are asked to submit a report to the USGS Felt Report form. Federal scientists listed the event as preliminary while they continue analysis.

Recent seismic activity near Petrolia

This event follows several small quakes in the area over the past week. Three tremors of magnitude 2.5 or greater were recorded nearby.

• March 25 — magnitude 3.4, west of Ferndale.
• March 31 — magnitude 2.7, west of Petrolia.
• March 27 — magnitude 2.6, west of Petrolia.

Magnitude, risks and regional context

Magnitude measures the energy released at an earthquake’s source. The USGS uses this scale in place of the old Richter measurement.

Quakes between about 2.5 and 5.4 are often noticed but rarely cause serious damage, according to Michigan Tech. Events below 2.5 are seldom felt by most people.

Earthquakes can trigger fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. They occur worldwide but are most common in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico and Washington, per the Department of Homeland Security.

Globally, roughly 500,000 detectable quakes occur each year. About 100,000 of those can be felt, and roughly 100 cause damage.

Safety guidance

Officials urge immediate protective action if shaking starts. The recommended response is to drop, cover and hold on until shaking stops.

• If you are in a car: pull over, stop and set the parking brake.
• If you are in bed: turn face-down and cover your head with a pillow.
• If you are outdoors: keep clear of buildings and do not go inside.
• If you are inside: stay put, avoid doorways and shelter under sturdy furniture if possible.
• If you use a wheelchair: lock the wheels and remain seated until the shaking ends.

After an event, expect aftershocks and possible hazards. Watch for structural damage, gas or water leaks, and downed power lines.

Source: U.S. Geological Survey. Additional context from Michigan Tech and the Department of Homeland Security. This report was first published April 1, 2026, at 2:05 a.m. and compiled for Filmogaz.com.