Earthquakes Near Salt Lake City Today
Live answer from USGS data — every earthquake within 150 km (93 mi) of Salt Lake City, Utah.
Checking live USGS data near Salt Lake City…
Why Salt Lake City gets earthquakes
Salt Lake City sits directly on the Wasatch fault, which runs along the base of the Wasatch Range through the heart of the metro area. The fault's Salt Lake City segment produces a large (M7-class) earthquake roughly every 1,300–1,500 years — and its last one was about 1,400 years ago.
In March 2020, an M5.7 near Magna — the largest Utah quake since 1992 — damaged buildings, knocked the trumpet from the Angel Moroni statue on the Salt Lake Temple, and briefly shut the airport. About 80% of Utah's population lives within 15 miles of the Wasatch fault.
Salt Lake City earthquake FAQ
▸Did Salt Lake City just have an earthquake?
The live panel at the top of this page checks the USGS catalog for every earthquake within 150 km of Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City?
The Wasatch fault runs along the base of the mountains directly through Salt Lake City, capable of M7+ quakes. The 2020 Magna M5.7 occurred on a related structure beneath the valley. The West Valley fault zone adds additional local sources.
▸What magnitude earthquake can you feel in Salt Lake City, UT?
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 Salt Lake City?
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.