Seven Earthquakes Rattle Ventura County Mountains, Largest at Magnitude 3.3

A cluster of seven earthquakes struck a mountainous area northwest of Fillmore in Ventura County on the morning of December 11, 2025. The U.S. Geological Survey reported that magnitudes ranged from 2.2 to 3.3, with no immediate reports of injuries or damage.

📍 Where and When It Happened

The seismic activity began at 10:21 a.m. with a magnitude 2.5 earthquake about 9.3 miles northwest of Fillmore. Over the next 40 minutes, six additional quakes followed in close proximity. All occurred at depths between 2.9 and 6.5 miles.

🧾 Timeline of Events

• 10:21 a.m. — Magnitude 2.5 at 9.3 miles northwest of Fillmore
• 10:27 a.m. — Magnitude 2.6 at 8 miles northwest of Fillmore
• 10:27 a.m. — Magnitude 3.3 at 9.3 miles northwest of Fillmore
• 10:28 a.m. — Magnitude 2.5 at 8 miles northwest of Fillmore
• 10:29 a.m. — Magnitude 2.6 at 8.7 miles northwest of Fillmore
• 10:31 a.m. — Magnitude 2.8 at 8 miles northwest of Fillmore
• 10:59 a.m. — Magnitude 2.2 at 8 miles northwest of Fillmore

📊 What the Experts Say

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, these types of small earthquakes are common in California. The state typically records several hundred magnitude 3.0 or greater quakes each year. Only about 15 to 20 earthquakes annually exceed magnitude 4.0. Alaska is the only region in North America that experiences more seismic activity than California.

🚨 What to Do in an Earthquake

The California Department of Public Health recommends the following safety steps during an earthquake:

• Drop to your hands and knees to prevent being knocked over.
• Cover your head and neck, ideally by sheltering under a sturdy table. If no shelter is available, stay next to an interior wall and protect vital organs.
• Hold On to your shelter or remain in place until the shaking stops.

📍 Why It Matters

Though these earthquakes were relatively minor, they serve as a reminder of California’s seismic risks and the importance of earthquake preparedness. Emergency officials urge residents to review safety plans and supplies regularly.