A preliminary 3.2-magnitude earthquake rattled the area near Ridgemark early Tuesday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
The tremor struck at 2:03 a.m. Its epicenter was about 3 miles southwest of Ridgemark and occurred at a depth of 4 miles.
Did you feel it? People who experienced the shaking can submit a report through the USGS Felt Report form.
What to know about earthquakes
The U.S. Geological Survey says magnitude measures the amount of energy released at the earthquake’s source, replacing the older Richter scale.
According to Michigan Tech, earthquakes ranging from 2.5 to 5.4 in magnitude are often felt but rarely result in significant damage. Quakes below 2.5 magnitude are usually not noticed by most people.
Earthquakes can trigger sudden and intense shaking that may lead to fires, tsunamis, landslides, or avalanches. While they can occur anywhere, the Department of Homeland Security says they are most common in Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico, and Washington.
Experts estimate that about 500,000 earthquakes are detectable worldwide each year. Around 100,000 are strong enough to be felt, and roughly 100 cause damage.
What to do during an earthquake
If an earthquake occurs, experts recommend taking immediate action to protect yourself.
- If you’re in a car: Pull over, stop safely, and engage the parking brake.
- If you’re in bed: Roll face-down and use a pillow to protect your head.
- If you’re outdoors: Stay away from buildings and avoid going inside.
- If you’re indoors: Remain inside and avoid running outside. Stay away from doorways.
Officials say the safest response is to drop, cover, and hold on.
“Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy,” officials say. “If you’re using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.”
Protect your head and neck with your arms, and if possible, move under a sturdy table. If no shelter is available, crawl toward an interior wall away from windows.
Officials advise holding onto the table with one hand and being prepared to move with it if necessary.
“There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines,” officials say. “Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.”
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