A 3.7 magnitude earthquake rattled San Francisco on Friday morning, occurring at 7:02 a.m. and centered offshore about three miles northwest of the San Francisco Zoo, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS). Fortunately, there were no reports of injuries or damage, despite several residents taking to social media to describe a jolt that shook them awake.
In addition to the initial quake, the area experienced at least three light-to-moderate aftershocks, with magnitudes of 2.2, 2.5, and 3.0 recorded throughout the morning. The first aftershock occurred just four minutes after the main quake, followed by another at 9:39 a.m. and a final one at 10:48 a.m.
San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie addressed the situation, emphasizing the city’s preparedness for such seismic events. In his statement, he reassured the public of the city’s commitment to safety: “I promised to make the safety of San Franciscans my first priority as mayor, and I am keeping that promise today.” He noted that city officials were already mobilizing to assess the situation and ensure the safety of residents.
The earthquake was measured at a depth of just over five miles, highlighting its relatively shallow nature, which often contributes to the feeling of stronger shaking on the surface.
As the city navigates the immediate aftermath of this event, officials continue to remind residents about the importance of earthquake preparedness.
Overall, while this quake served as a reminder of the seismic risks that California faces, San Francisco’s effective emergency response mechanisms provide assurance that the city remains vigilant in safeguarding its residents against potential natural disasters.