3.9-magnitude earthquake rumbles near California national park, geologists say

A 3.9-magnitude earthquake shook the Pinnacles National Park area in California, the U.S. Geological Survey reported.

The 6-mile deep quake hit about 5 miles from Pinnacles at 6:33 a.m. Tuesday, March 7, according to the USGS.

Over 90 people from as far away as Hollister and Gilroy reported feeling the tremor to the agency.

Magnitude measures the energy released at the source of the earthquake, the U.S. Geological Survey says. It replaces the old Richter scale.

Quakes between 2.5 and 5.4 magnitude are often felt but rarely cause much damage, according to Michigan Tech. Quakes below 2.5 magnitude are seldom felt by most people.

Earthquakes’ sudden, rapid shaking can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. They can happen anywhere, but they’re most common in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico and Washington, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

If an earthquake strikes, it’s best to protect yourself right away. Here are tips from experts:

• If you’re in a car: Pull over and stop. Set your parking break.

• If you’re in bed: Turn face-down and cover your head with a pillow.

• If you’re outdoors: Stay away from buildings. Don’t go inside.

• If you’re inside: Stay and don’t run outdoors. Stay away from doorways.

The best way to protect yourself during an earthquake is to drop, cover and hold on, officials say.

Pinnacles National Park is about 130 miles southeast of San Francisco.

This story was originally published March 7, 2023 at 9:41 AM with the headline "3.9-magnitude earthquake rumbles near California national park, geologists say."