NewsWPLG Local 10June 24, 2026United States
5.6 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Mendocino County
A 5.6 magnitude earthquake struck near Willits, California, on Wednesday morning, marking the region's strongest seismic event since 1940. While no major structural damage has been reported, over 6,000 residents are experiencing power outages and some injuries have been noted.
Read the full story at WPLG Local 10Why It Matters
Residents in the affected area face ongoing power outages and potential , with officials requesting that roads remain clear for damage assessment and repair crews.
Key Facts
- The earthquake occurred at 8:10 a.m. PT on Wednesday with a preliminary magnitude of 5.6.
- The epicenter was 7 miles northwest of Willits, California, at a depth of 5 miles.
- More than 6,000 residents across six towns are currently without power.
- Hospitals have reported some injuries, though the extent and nature remain unconfirmed.
- Nearly 657,000 early warning alerts were sent via the MyShake App.
- Total public safety alerts issued are estimated to exceed one million.
- Three aftershocks under 2.7 magnitude occurred within one hour of the initial quake.
- This is the strongest earthquake in the region since 1940.
- Local officials have requested that residents stay off roads to allow for damage inspections.
Who's Mentioned
locationMendocino County“Local government jurisdiction managing the emergency response.”personHeather Rose“Mendocino County spokesperson.”locationWillits“Agricultural town near the earthquake epicenter.”personRobert de Groot“Scientist with the ShakeAlert operations team.”organizationU.S. Geological Survey“Provided seismic data on the earthquake's magnitude and location.”personLucy Jones“Seismologist providing expert analysis.”organizationCalifornia Governor’s Office of Emergency Services“Coordinating impact evaluation and issued early warning alerts.”