Lake Almanor Earthquake: 5.5 Magnitude Tremor Rattles Northern Central Valley

May 12, 2023: Lake Almanor, situated approximately 80 miles northeast of Chico and 150 miles north of Sacramento, endured a 5.5-magnitude earthquake, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The epicenter was located at the bottom of Lake Almanor near East Shore, California.

According to the USGS, the initial report indicated a magnitude of 5.5 at around 4:20 p.m. PST, which was later downgraded to 5.4 but then regraded back to 5.5.

The shaking from the earthquake was felt as far as Sacramento, and Peninsula Market, located near the epicenter, experienced bottles falling and shattering on the floor.

As of now, there have been no reports of major damage or injuries. However, several aftershocks have been registered in the vicinity of the initial earthquake.

Reports indicate that people in various cities across Northern California, including Sacramento, Placer, El Dorado, San Joaquin, Solano, Colusa, Nevada, Yolo, and Butte counties, felt the quake. There were even reports of people in Reno, Nevada, experiencing the earthquake.

Interestingly, almost a decade ago on May 23, 2013, the same area of Lake Almanor was struck by a 5.7-magnitude earthquake, which thankfully did not result in any injuries or significant damage.

The USGS recorded several smaller aftershocks, none exceeding a magnitude of 3.0.

Experts at the USGS have stated that there is a minimal (around 6%) possibility of a larger earthquake occurring within the next three days as an aftershock following the main 5.5-magnitude quake. The California Highway Patrol reported temporary disruptions in their Chico division's 911 lines due to the earthquake, urging people to use an alternative number for emergencies.

Seismologists and geologists are closely monitoring the situation to determine the likelihood of further seismic activity in the coming hours and days. It is advisable for residents to remain vigilant and follow any safety guidelines or evacuation orders issued by local authorities.

Lake Almanor, known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities, attracts tourists throughout the year. The earthquake's impact on local businesses and tourism is yet to be assessed, but there may be potential disruptions and temporary closures as the situation unfolds.

Sources

5.5-magnitude earthquake hits near Lake Almanor, felt all over Sacramento Valley. https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/5-5-magnitude-earthquake-hits-near-lake-almanor-felt-all-over-sacramento-valley/

5.5 magnitude earthquake strikes Plumas County in Northern California, USGS says. https://abc7news.com/earthquake-northern-california-earth-quake-plumas-county-lake-almanor-sacramento/13235881/

5.5 magnitude earthquake shakes Northern California. https://www.kcra.com/article/54-magnitude-earthquake-shakes-northern-california/43869029