After a major earthquake in California, the ground keeps moving: aftershocks are smaller quakes triggered as the crust adjusts around the fault that ruptured. They are most frequent right after the mainshock and taper off over days to months. This page tracks recent seismic activity across California live, so you can follow an aftershock sequence as it happens. For instant alerts the moment a new aftershock strikes near you, the free QuakeMate earthquake alert app sends real-time push notifications.
Recent earthquakes in California
- 2.13 km S of Brawley, CA19 minutes ago
- 1.311 km NNW of Hollister, CA35 minutes ago
- 0.822 km NE of Pine Valley, CA48 minutes ago
- 0.64 km NNW of Fontana, CA54 minutes ago
- 0.315 km NE of Borrego Springs, CA57 minutes ago
- 2.611 km S of Lompoc, CA1 hour ago
- 0.57 km ESE of Valle Vista, CA1 hour ago
- 0.52 km N of The Geysers, CA2 hours ago
- 1.06 km WNW of Cobb, CA2 hours ago
- 1.811 km S of Lompoc, CA2 hours ago
- 0.95 km SSE of Julian, CA2 hours ago
- 1.727 km SSW of Ocotillo Wells, CA2 hours ago
Aftershocks in California - FAQ
Are there aftershocks in California right now?
Yes. 86 earthquakes have been recorded in California in the last 24 hours. The live feed above lists each one as it is detected, so you can watch an aftershock sequence unfold in real time.
How long do aftershocks last after a big earthquake in California?
Aftershocks are most frequent in the hours and days right after the mainshock and taper off over time, but a large earthquake can produce aftershocks for months. Their number and size follow well-known patterns (Omori and Bath laws), so activity gradually declines even though individual aftershocks can still be strongly felt.
Can I get an alert for the next aftershock in California?
Yes. Turn on browser notifications above to get a heads-up when a new quake is detected near California, or install the free QuakeMate app for wake-you-up critical alerts with custom magnitude and region rules.