Magnitude 4.7 Earthquake Strikes Near Lassen Volcanic National Park

Summary:

A magnitude 4.7 earthquake struck 10 miles southwest of Lassen Volcanic National Park at 8:14 AM PT, shaking parts of Shasta County and felt as far as Redding and Chico. These quakes are commonly triggered by stress release along the Hat Creek Fault or volcanic-related tectonic activity. While considered moderate, earthquakes of this size can crack foundations, damage unreinforced masonry, and knock items off shelves. Unlike larger quakes (M6.0+), they rarely cause life-threatening structural collapse but serve as crucial reminders for preparedness.

What This Means for You:

• Impact: Potential light structural damage, broken glass, or disrupted utilities
• Fix: Inspect your home for gas leaks/hazards → Use flashlight (not candles)
• Security: Enable wireless emergency alerts (Settings → Notifications → Government Alerts)
• Warning: Aftershocks are likely in the next 48 hours – secure heavy furniture now

Solutions:

Solution 1: Secure Dangerous Items

Anchor heavy furniture (bookcases, TVs) to wall studs using L-brackets (code: 2x #12 screws). Place latches on cabinets to prevent contents spilling. Move heavy objects away from beds/doors. Most earthquake injuries come from falling objects, not collapsing buildings.

Solution 2: Build a Go-Bag

Pack per FEMA guidelines: 1 gal water/person/day × 3 days, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, whistle, N95 masks, and wrench for gas shutoff. Keep near exits or in your car trunk.

Solution 3: Structural Retrofitting

Homes built pre-1980 may need retrofitting:

1. Consult licensed contractor
2. Reinforce cripple walls (shear walls)
3. Secure foundation with anchor bolts every 4-6ft (CA Building Code §A301)

Costs average $3,000-$7,000 but reduce damage risk by 80%.

Solution 4: Emergency Communication Plan

Designate an out-of-state contact (family use: “Aunt Linda in Arizona”) for coordination. Text “REDCROSS” to 90999 for shelter info. Download MyShake App (iOS/Android) for early warnings.

People Also Ask:

• Q: Will this trigger volcanic activity? A: Very unlikely – Lassen’s last eruption was 1917.
• Q: How frequent are M4.0+ quakes here? A: ~20-30 annually in Northern CA.
• Q: Should I buy earthquake insurance? A: Advised if near fault lines – regular policies exclude quakes.
• Q: Best way to check home safety? A: Free assessment via CEA’s **Earthquake Brace + Bolt** program.

Protect Yourself:

• DROP to hands/knees (avoid falling), COVER neck under sturdy table, HOLD until shaking stops
• If outdoors: Stay clear of buildings, trees, power lines
• Post-quake: Check USGS ShakeMap for aftershock forecasts
• Never use elevators during/after shaking

Expert Take:

“A M4.7 is nature’s drill sergeant – it tests your preparedness without causing disaster. Treat it as a wake-up call for the ‘Big One’.”
– Dr. Lucy Jones, Seismologist

Tags:

• Northern California earthquake preparedness checklist
• Lassen Volcanic National Park seismic activity
• How to retrofit older home for earthquakes
• Best earthquake alert apps California
• Earthquake insurance cost Shasta County
• Hat Creek Fault recent activity

Stay vigilant: Report damage to local Office of Emergency Services. Next 10 days carry 5% chance of M5.0+ aftershock.

*Featured image via source

Edited by 4idiotz Editorial System