Where did 4.3 earthquake strike in San Francisco Bay Area?

Residents across the San Francisco Bay Area were jolted awake early Monday morning after a 4.3-magnitude earthquake struck near Berkeley, according to the United States Geological Survey (USGS).

The quake was recorded at 2:56 a.m. Pacific Time, its epicenter located roughly a mile southeast of Berkeley. Initial reports listed the tremor at magnitude 4.6 before USGS later adjusted the figure.

For many, the shaking served as an unplanned wake-up call. Phones blared emergency alerts urging people to seek cover, and concerns about possible aftershocks kept some residents on edge through the early hours. While the quake was not considered severe, its location in one of the Bay Area’s most densely populated regions heightened its impact.

Transit Disruptions

Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) briefly slowed trains during the Monday morning commute to carry out safety inspections. Officials warned riders of delays of up to 20 minutes as crews checked tracks before normal service resumed.

Aftershock Concerns

Seismologists noted that aftershocks could follow in the coming days or weeks. These secondary quakes, though usually smaller, can sometimes be strong enough to worsen structural damage caused by the initial tremor. USGS data will continue to be updated as more information is collected and analyzed.

A Reminder of the Region’s Seismic Risks

Though the earthquake did not cause major reported damage, experts stressed that it underscores the constant seismic risk facing the Bay Area, which sits along the active San Andreas and Hayward faults. Authorities advised residents to remain prepared with emergency kits and safety plans in place.

FAQ: 4.3-Magnitude Earthquake in San Francisco Bay Area

Q1: Where did the San Francisco Bay Area earthquake occur?
The earthquake struck about one mile southeast of Berkeley, California, early Monday morning.

Q2: What was the magnitude of the earthquake?
The United States Geological Survey initially reported the quake at 4.6 but later revised it to 4.3.

Q3: When did the earthquake happen?
The tremor was recorded at 2:56 a.m. Pacific Time on Monday, September 22, 2025.

Q4: Were there any damages or injuries reported?
As of now, no major damage or injuries have been confirmed, though residents reported being jolted awake.

Q5: Did the earthquake affect public transport?
Yes. Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) slowed trains for safety inspections, causing delays of up to 20 minutes during the morning commute.

Q6: Should residents expect aftershocks?
Yes. Seismologists warn that aftershocks may follow in the coming days or weeks, though most are expected to be minor.