A 3.1 magnitude earthquake hits the East Bay early Tuesday

Why do earthquakes happen? How do we stay safe?

Here's a brief explanation of how earthquakes start, the worst earthquakes in California history, and how to stay safe if one hits your city.

A 3.1-magnitude earthquake shook the East Bay area early Tuesday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The quake occurred about 3 miles southeast of San Ramon, briefly shaking homes and businesses in the area. Residents reported feeling a short rolling motion lasting only a few seconds.

Officials said there were no immediate reports of damage. The quake's location is near a group of small tremors that shook the area last week, part of what seismologists call “typical seismic activity.”

A pattern of earthquakes raises questions

Tuesday's earthquake comes on the heels of a series of earthquakes in the East Bay and Central Coast this fall. In early November, six earthquakes of magnitude 3.0 or higher hit the region, including a 3.8 magnitude earthquake in San Ramon on November 9. Then on December 8, dozens of small earthquakes struck again, the strongest of which was a magnitude 3.7.

Experts say these “seismic swarms” are not unusual. Similar patterns occurred in 2002, 2003, and 2015 along the Calaveras Fault, part of the larger San Andreas and Hayward fault system. While these small earthquakes may relieve some stress, they do not eliminate the risk of a major event.

Is the “big one” on the horizon?

The timing of the California tremors comes as two massive earthquakes offshore have captured global attention: a 7.0-magnitude earthquake in Alaska on December 6 and a 7.6-magnitude earthquake in Japan on December 8, prompting tsunami warnings and mass evacuations. Both events underscore the unpredictability of seismic activity.

California ranks second in the United States for earthquakes, and more than 70% of the population lives within 30 miles of a fault line. State forecasts estimate a 72% chance of an earthquake of magnitude 6.7 or greater hitting the Bay Area before 2043. While small quakes don't guarantee a larger quake, they are a reminder to stay prepared.

What to do during an earthquake

According to Ready.gov, here's what you should do:

If you are indoors: Stay indoors. Get down on the ground, cover your head and neck, and hold on. Avoid doorways and do not run outside. If you are in bed: Turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow. If you are outside: Stay outside and stay away from buildings, street lights, and utility cords. If you are driving: Pull to a clear place, stop, and remain inside the vehicle until the shaking stops.

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