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Earthquake Hits Monterey County: 3.9-Magnitude Quake Shakes the Region
By CAL WIRE Weather Desk — Wednesday, August 12, 2026
By CAL WIRE Weather Desk  |  PUBLISHED: Wednesday, August 12, 2026
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Monterey Bay, California.
Monterey Bay, California.Photo: santacruzsentinel.com

A 3.9-magnitude earthquake rattled parts of Monterey and San Benito counties, according to early reports — and if you felt it, you're not imagining things. The quake is already spiking searches across the area as residents try to figure out what just happened.

Related: Earthquake Near Corona, Orange County: What We Know About Today's Shaker · MAGNITUDE 3.0 QUAKE RATTLES GEYSERS AREA IN SONOMA COUNTY

No injuries have been reported so far. The shaking was felt across a stretch of Central California, with Monterey County among the areas affected, per reports from SFGATE and KCRA.

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This is a developing story and details may change. Authorities have not yet released a confirmed epicenter, depth, or cause of any damage. If you're in the area, check your home for any structural concerns and stay away from anything that looks unstable.

What We Know Right Now

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

The 3.9-magnitude quake shook both Monterey and San Benito counties, according to multiple regional news outlets. It's part of broader seismic activity along the Northern and Central California coast reported Tuesday. No damage figures have been confirmed at this time.

See also: MAGNITUDE 2.8 QUAKE RATTLES GEYSERS AREA IN SONOMA COUNTY · M2.8 EARTHQUAKE STRIKES NEAR THE GEYSERS IN SONOMA COUNTY

What To Do After a Quake

Even a moderate quake can loosen gas lines or shift structures. If you smell gas, get out and call 911. Check on neighbors, especially elderly residents. Aftershocks are always possible after a quake in this range, so stay alert.

Stay With CAL WIRE

We're monitoring this story as it develops. Check back for updates on any damage reports, aftershocks, or official statements from Monterey County emergency officials.

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Filed Under: Weather Earthquake Hits Monterey County