Thanksgiving Day Quakes Rattle Central Coast

On a day typically associated with family, feasts, and gratitude, the Central Coast experienced a series of earthquakes that served as a stark reminder of the region's seismic activity. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), two significant earthquakes struck near San Juan Bautista just minutes apart on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025.

The Earthquakes: What Happened?

The first earthquake, registering a magnitude 3.9, occurred at 12:48 p.m. approximately 3 miles south of San Juan Bautista. Just nine minutes later, a stronger magnitude 4.0 quake hit the same area, creating a double jolt that resonated across the region. These quakes originated along the active geological faults that characterize California's complex tectonic landscape.

Map showing the location of the magnitude 4.0 earthquake near San Juan Bautista. - Image from https://www.msn.com/en-us/weather/topstories/2-earthquakes-strike-near-san-juan-bautista-on-thanksgiving-day/ar-AA1RhZMb

How Far Did the Shaking Reach?

The initial tremor was primarily felt throughout the Central Coast, including Salinas, Monterey, Santa Cruz, and Hollister, with reports extending into parts of Santa Clara County. The second earthquake generated more widespread shaking, with residents as far away as Half Moon Bay, San Francisco, and Novato in Marin County reporting noticeable movement. This extended reach underscores how seismic energy can propagate through diverse geological structures.

Recent Seismic Activity Context

These Thanksgiving Day quakes are part of a broader pattern of recent seismic activity across Northern California:

Gilroy Area: On Wednesday morning, a magnitude 4.0 earthquake struck near Gilroy, followed by multiple aftershocks.
The Geysers: The North Bay's geothermal region experienced three earthquakes on Thursday morning, including a magnitude 3.9 temblor at 9:11 a.m. This area, home to 18 geothermal power plants, is inherently seismically active due to underground steam extraction.
San Ramon: The East Bay has seen a cluster of minor earthquakes over the past two weeks.

No Immediate Damage Reported

Fortunately, authorities have not received any immediate reports of structural damage, injuries, or infrastructure disruptions resulting from these earthquakes. This positive outcome reflects California's rigorous building codes and ongoing seismic preparedness efforts. However, officials remind residents that even moderate quakes can cause hidden structural vulnerabilities.

Emergency preparedness kit with water, food, and supplies. - Image from https://duckduckgo.com/?origin=funnel_home_website&t=h_&q=earthquake+emergency+preparedness+kit+supplies&ia=images&iax=images&iai=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.firstmyfamily.com%2Fcdn%2Fshop%2Ffiles%2F4PersonBanner1.jpg%3Fv%3D1715626285

What This Means for Residents

While these events were classified as minor earthquakes, they serve as a crucial reminder about seismic preparedness. Experts recommend:

Creating emergency kits with water, non-perishable food, medications, and important documents
Establishing family communication plans
Securing heavy furniture and appliances
Knowing how to "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" during shaking

Looking Ahead

The Central Coast's proximity to the San Andreas and other major fault systems ensures that seismic events remain part of the region's reality. Scientists continue monitoring activity through advanced networks like the USGS's ShakeAlert system, which provides early warnings. Residents are encouraged to register for emergency alerts and stay informed through official channels.

As we gather with loved ones, these Thanksgiving Day quakes remind us that preparedness is the most valuable gift we can give our communities.