A preliminary 3.4 magnitude earthquake jolted Hayward, California early Thursday morning, with numerous residents reporting shaking throughout the East Bay. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the tremors were felt at approximately 5:04 a.m. on February 16, 2023. The epicenter was located about 2.7 miles northeast of Hayward and was recorded at a depth of 6.4 miles. Local authorities reported no immediate damage or injuries resulting from the quake, but the event prompted a flurry of 911 calls from residents curious about the cause of the shaking. Hayward’s Police Department took to social media to reassure the public, stating, ‘We are receiving many calls regarding the earthquake, and we will update as more information becomes available.’ Meanwhile, an aftershock of magnitude 2.2 was reported just a few minutes later, further rattling residents in the vicinity. This recent seismic activity adds to the long history of earthquakes affecting the San Francisco Bay Area, a region known for its tectonic instability due to the San Andreas Fault system. Residents are reminded to maintain preparedness for such natural events, as aftershocks can often follow significant quakes. Seismologists continue to monitor the area for additional seismic activity.
