California was shaken early Thursday as a series of earthquakes struck in quick succession, raising concern in the seismically active region.
The US Geological Survey (USGS) reported six tremors ranging in magnitude from 2.6 to 4.0.
The seismic activity began at 1:51am ET, when four quakes occurred within just two minutes. Magnitudes ranged from 2.6 to 4.0.
These quakes, roughly 72 miles north of San Francisco, struck near the San Andreas Fault, a massive 800-mile tectonic boundary stretching from Cape Mendocino to the Salton Sea.
Scientists have said that this fault is considered overdue for a 'Big One,' a magnitude 7.8 earthquake or higher, making the recent activity closely monitored.
The Maacama Fault, running north of Santa Rosa up to Ukiah, experienced a 3.9 magnitude quake.
This parallel fault system adds complexity to the region's seismic activity, with experts suggesting the events may be part of a swarm or aftershock sequence.
And the latest tremor, a 3.6 magnitude, was detected in Southern California around 9:50am.
Residents reported light shaking, but no significant damage or injuries have been reported.
Scientists have long kept a close eye on the San Andreas fault, fearing it could soon release a devastating earthquake.
Based on historical trends, it's estimated that the San Andreas causes a major quake every 150 or so years, and the last one was 167 years ago.
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