A 3.5 magnitude earthquake struck near Fall City, Washington, on Monday afternoon, causing a noticeable shake in the area but no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries. The tremor occurred at approximately 1:35 p.m. PST, with its epicenter located about 7 miles northeast of North Bend, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Residents from Fall City and surrounding areas on the Eastside of Seattle reported feeling the quake. Local social media was abuzz with accounts of the event, with one X user from Fall City describing the experience as a “good boom and jolt,” while another from Kirkland noted “two small waves.” These firsthand accounts underscore the quake’s impact on the local community.
The earthquake was relatively shallow, with a depth of approximately 12.8 kilometers (about 7.9 miles), which explains why it was felt by so many in the vicinity. The Pacific Northwest Seismic Network (PNSN) confirmed the event, aligning with USGS data, indicating a consistent monitoring of seismic activity in the region.
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While the 3.5 magnitude falls on the lower end of the seismic scale, such events serve as reminders of the active geological landscape of the Pacific Northwest. Earthquakes of this size typically do not cause structural damage but can be startling and serve as a wake-up call for earthquake preparedness.
Local authorities have reminded residents to check their home and business alarms, which might have been triggered by the quake, and to follow basic earthquake safety protocols like “drop, cover, and hold on” if a quake occurs.
The region, part of the broader Cascadia Subduction Zone, is known for its seismic activity, though major quakes are less frequent. This event adds to the list of recent seismic activities in the area, with previous incidents noted in December 2019 and August 2023, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance and preparedness.
