3.1 magnitude earthquake shakes Redlands area Wednesday morning

Quake felt across Inland Empire prompts reminder about earthquake preparedness and emergency alerts

3.1 magnitude earthquake shakes Redlands area Wednesday morning
(iStock photo by asbe)

A 3.1 magnitude earthquake struck south of Redlands on Wednesday morning.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the earthquake occurred at 9:45 a.m. May 6 and was centered about 4 miles south-southwest of Redlands at a depth of about 3 miles.

Residents in Redlands, Riverside and Moreno Valley reported feeling light shaking to USGS.

No injuries or damage were immediately reported.

The U.S. Geological Survey reports Southern California experiences about 10,000 earthquakes annually, though most are too small to be felt. Only several hundred each year exceed magnitude 3.0, and roughly 15 to 20 are stronger than magnitude 4.0. Major earthquakes can also generate aftershocks for months afterward.

USGS map shows the location of the 3.1 magnitude earthquake struck south of Redlands on May 6, 2026.

The quake served as a reminder that Southern California remains one of the nation’s most active earthquake regions and that preparedness is essential.

  • Sign up for earthquake alerts: California’s Earthquake Early Warning System can provide precious seconds of warning before shaking begins. Residents are encouraged to download the free MyShake app and enable emergency alerts on their phones.
  • Know what to do during shaking: Emergency officials recommend “Drop, Cover and Hold On.” If indoors, shelter under a sturdy table or next to an interior wall and stay in place until the shaking stops.
  • Prepare a family emergency plan: Families should identify safe spots in every room, choose a meeting location in case they are separated and learn how to turn off gas, electricity and water.
  • Build a Go-Bag and Stay-Box: The guide recommends keeping emergency supplies ready, including water, nonperishable food, flashlights, medications, cash, phone chargers and copies of important documents. Officials recommend preparing enough supplies to stay home for at least three days without water or electricity.
  • Secure your home: Californians are encouraged to secure heavy furniture and create safe spaces for children, older adults and pets.
  • Be ready for aftershocks: After an earthquake, residents should check for hazards such as gas leaks, damaged wiring and broken water pipes, while avoiding damaged buildings.
  • Keep emergency contact information accessible: The guide recommends maintaining written lists of emergency contacts, medical information and insurance records in both digital and printed formats.

More information on earthquake preparedness can be found in the California Earthquake Readiness Guide.

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