6.0 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Off Oregon Coast Near Bandon

Quick Facts

* A 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Oregon near Bandon * The quake occurred on Saturday, May 28, 2023, at 1:06 p.m. PST * The epicenter was located approximately 16 miles (26 kilometers) west of Bandon * No injuries or significant damage have been reported

Impact of the Earthquake

The earthquake was felt throughout the region, from Brookings to Newport. Residents reported feeling shaking and hearing a loud boom. However, there were no immediate reports of damage to buildings or infrastructure. The Oregon Department of Transportation conducted inspections of bridges and roadways in the affected area and found no damage. Schools and businesses in Bandon and surrounding communities were closed for the day as a precaution but reopened the following day. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) issued a green alert for the earthquake, indicating a low likelihood of significant damage. However, they advised residents to be prepared for aftershocks, which could occur for several days or even weeks following the main event.

Tectonic Activity in the Region

The Oregon Coast is located in a seismically active region known as the Cascadia Subduction Zone. This zone is where the Juan de Fuca Plate is subducting beneath the North American Plate. As the Juan de Fuca Plate moves beneath the continent, it builds up pressure, which can eventually be released in the form of earthquakes. The Cascadia Subduction Zone is capable of producing large earthquakes, including megathrust earthquakes with magnitudes greater than 8.0. The last major earthquake in the region occurred in 1700 and is estimated to have been a magnitude 9.0.

Preparing for Future Earthquakes

While the risk of a large earthquake in the Cascadia Subduction Zone is relatively low, it is important to be prepared. Residents in the region should have an earthquake preparedness plan and be familiar with the following safety tips: * Drop, cover, and hold on during an earthquake * Stay away from windows and outside doors * If you are driving, pull over to the side of the road and stop * Check for injuries and damage after the earthquake * Be prepared for aftershocks, which can occur for days or weeks following the main event For more information on earthquake preparedness, visit the Oregon Seismic Safety website: https://www.oregon.gov/oem/hazardsprep/Documents/eq_earthquakepreparedness.pdf