A magnitude 3.6 earthquake struck near Santa Rosa, California, on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 11:17 am local time. The tremor was centered approximately 46 kilometers (28.6 miles) north of the city in Sonoma County, at a shallow depth of 1.4 kilometers (0.87 miles), according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
While preliminary data suggests the earthquake was unlikely to cause significant damage, it was potentially felt as light shaking by residents in nearby communities. The Incorporated Research Institutions for Seismology (IRIS) also reported the quake with a magnitude of 3.6.
Areas where light shaking may have been experienced include Cobb (population 1,800, approximately 8 kilometers from the epicenter), Cloverdale (population 8,800, approximately 18 kilometers away), Clearlake (population 15,200, approximately 21 kilometers away), Windsor (population 27,500, approximately 33 kilometers away) and Santa Rosa itself (population 178,100, approximately 46 kilometers away). Residents in Ukiah (population 15,900, approximately 48 kilometers away) and Rohnert Park (population 42,400, approximately 57 kilometers away) may have experienced very light vibrations. The towns of Agua Caliente and Petaluma, further afield at 64 and 70 kilometers respectively, were likely unaffected.
California, and the San Francisco Bay Area in particular, is a seismically active region due to its location along major fault lines, including the Rodgers Creek Fault. The region experiences frequent, though typically minor, earthquakes as a result of the ongoing tectonic activity. The USGS maintains a comprehensive network of seismometers throughout the state to monitor and record these events.
The USGS stated that the magnitude, precise location of the epicenter, and depth of the earthquake may be subject to revision as seismologists continue to analyze data and refine their calculations. This is standard procedure following seismic events, as initial estimates are often based on preliminary readings.
This event follows a period of seismic activity in the region. Data from BayTremor.com indicates that twelve earthquakes have been recorded within 30 miles of Santa Rosa in 2026 to date. The largest of these was a magnitude 2.3 earthquake recorded on January 21st. The average magnitude of earthquakes in the area this year has been 1.5, with approximately one earthquake per month.
While the February 8th quake was relatively minor, it serves as a reminder of the earthquake risk faced by residents of Northern California. The region’s vulnerability is heightened by its dense population and aging infrastructure. Preparedness measures, including securing homes and workplaces and developing family emergency plans, are crucial for mitigating the potential impact of future, more significant seismic events.
Further afield, a magnitude 5.0 earthquake struck near Akhiok, Kodiak Island, Alaska, USA, at 11:37 am local time on February 8, 2026. This quake, occurring at a depth of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles), was likely felt by many in the area, though We see not expected to have caused significant damage. This event is unrelated to the California earthquake but highlights the global prevalence of seismic activity.
The USGS provides resources for earthquake preparedness, including information on what to do before, during, and after an earthquake. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these guidelines and to take steps to protect themselves and their families. Real-time earthquake information is available on the USGS earthquake map website.
The data collected from this and other recent earthquakes will contribute to a better understanding of seismic activity in the region and help to improve earthquake forecasting and hazard assessment. Continued monitoring and research are essential for reducing the risks associated with earthquakes in California and other seismically active areas around the world.
