Earthquakes Near Bakersfield Today
Live answer from USGS data — every earthquake within 150 km (93 mi) of Bakersfield, California.
Checking live USGS data near Bakersfield…
Why Bakersfield gets earthquakes
Bakersfield and southern Kern County were hit by the 1952 Kern County earthquake (M7.3) on the White Wolf fault — the largest quake in California since 1906. It killed 12 people, and a strong M5.8 aftershock a month later caused further deaths in Bakersfield itself.
The region sits near the intersection of three major structures: the White Wolf fault to the south, the Garlock fault along the Tehachapi Mountains, and the San Andreas fault beyond the Grapevine. Oil-field areas of the southern San Joaquin Valley also produce frequent small quakes.
Bakersfield earthquake FAQ
▸Did Bakersfield just have an earthquake?
The live panel at the top of this page checks the USGS catalog for every earthquake within 150 km of Bakersfield and answers in one line. Keep in mind USGS data lags real shaking by roughly 2–3 minutes in California and up to ~8 minutes in other regions — if you felt something seconds ago, refresh shortly.
▸What faults cause earthquakes near Bakersfield?
The White Wolf fault south of Bakersfield produced the 1952 Kern County M7.3 quake, California's largest since 1906. The Garlock fault runs along the Tehachapis, and the San Andreas passes southwest of the valley. Small oil-field-area quakes are also common.
▸What magnitude earthquake can you feel in Bakersfield, CA?
Close to the epicenter, people typically begin to feel earthquakes around magnitude 2.5–3.0. An M4+ is felt across a wide area and rattles objects; M5+ can damage buildings near the epicenter. Shallow quakes feel stronger than deep ones of the same magnitude, and soft soils amplify shaking.
▸What should I do if I feel an earthquake in Bakersfield?
Drop, Cover, and Hold On — get low, take cover under sturdy furniture, and hold on until shaking stops. Afterward, check for hazards like gas leaks, and expect possible aftershocks. If you're in a coastal area and the shaking is strong or lasts a long time, move inland or to high ground. Official guidance: ready.gov/earthquakes.