San Ramon Rattled by Magnitude 3.3 Earthquake

San Ramon Shaken by Recent Magnitude 3.3 Tremor

Residents of San Ramon and the broader East Bay experienced a momentary jolt late Monday evening, November 17, 2025, as a magnitude 3.3 earthquake struck the area. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the temblor occurred at approximately 10:47 p.m. PST.

Key Details of the San Ramon Earthquake

The earthquake's epicenter was located near the intersection of Alcosta Boulevard and Canyon Hills Road in San Ramon. The USGS reported the quake had a depth of approximately 5.6 to 6 miles, classifying it as a relatively shallow event. While the magnitude 3.3 quake was considered minor in strength, it was widely felt across several communities.

The "Did You Feel It?" page on the USGS website logged responses from over 800 residents. Reports came from San Ramon, Pleasanton, Walnut Creek, Danville, and as far away as Dublin, Oakland, and Union City, with most describing the shaking as weak.

Thankfully, authorities reported no immediate injuries or damage resulting from this seismic event. The shallow depth contributed to the widespread feeling, but the relatively low magnitude limited potential destruction.

Location and Fault Context

This earthquake occurred along the Calaveras Fault, a significant branch of the major San Andreas Fault system that runs through California. The Calaveras Fault is known to be active and has produced damaging earthquakes in the past, notably a magnitude 5.6 event in 2005.

Importantly, the location of Monday's quake is near the same area that experienced a swarm of eight earthquakes over about three hours on the morning of November 9, 2025. The strongest event during that swarm was a magnitude 3.8. This proximity suggests ongoing, though minor, seismic activity in this specific segment of the fault.

Bay Area Earthquake History

While minor, this event serves as a reminder of California's seismic reality. The Bay Area sits atop a complex network of active faults, including the notorious San Andreas. Historically, the region has experienced major quakes, including the devastating magnitude 7.8 San Francisco earthquake of 1906 and the magnitude 7.1 Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989.

Although a magnitude 3.3 quake falls far below the threshold causing significant structural damage, it is crucial for residents to remain prepared. California experiences thousands of earthquakes annually; however, only a small fraction are felt by people.

What to Do: Earthquake Safety Basics

Earthquakes can strike without warning. Here are essential safety tips:

• Drop, Cover, and Hold On: If you feel shaking immediately drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops.
• Stay Indoors: If you are inside, stay there. Avoid running outside or standing in a doorway.
• Away from Windows: Move away from windows, glass doors, and anything that could fall.
• Outdoors: Move to a clear area, away from buildings, trees, power lines, and streetlights.
• In a Vehicle: Pull over to a clear location, stop, and set the parking brake. Avoid bridges and overpasses.

Residents are encouraged to have an emergency kit, a family communication plan, and to know how to turn off utilities if necessary. Resources like the USGS and the California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) provide valuable preparedness information.

Conclusion

The magnitude 3.3 earthquake near San Ramon on November 17, 2025, was a minor but noticeable event highlighting the ever-present seismic activity beneath the East Bay. While no damage or injuries were reported, it underscores the importance of ongoing earthquake preparedness for everyone living in California. Staying informed and knowing how to react is key to safety.