A magnitude 6.0 earthquake was recorded offshore near the U.S. state of Oregon late Thursday evening, according to data from seismic monitoring authorities. The event occurred in the Pacific Ocean about 180 miles west of the coastline at approximately 10:25 p.m. Eastern Time. Because the epicenter was located offshore, no immediate damage was reported on land, though the earthquake was detected by monitoring systems throughout the region. A smaller aftershock measuring magnitude 3.1 was later recorded in the early hours of Friday, indicating continued seismic movement in the area.
People in several parts of Oregon reported feeling light ground movement following the offshore quake. Areas including Portland, Eugene, Salem, Dallas, and Coos Bay experienced mild shaking, even though they were far from the epicenter. As a precaution, regional tsunami monitoring systems were briefly activated. Officials later confirmed that no tsunami threat was present and that coastal areas remained safe, with no evacuations required.
The earthquake occurred along the Juan de Fuca tectonic plate, which is part of the Cascadia Subduction Zone. This fault system stretches along the Pacific Northwest coastline from northern California to British Columbia, Canada. The region experiences periodic seismic activity as the Juan de Fuca Plate slowly moves beneath the North American Plate. Experts noted that while small aftershocks may continue over the next several days, the chance of a stronger earthquake occurring in the near term remains low.
Scientists continue to study this geological zone to better understand long-term seismic behavior and improve preparedness planning. While research shows that the fault system is capable of producing major earthquakes over long periods, experts emphasize that precise prediction is not currently possible. Federal and state agencies regularly assess potential risks and encourage residents to stay informed and prepared. Officials confirmed that no injuries or property damage were associated with this recent earthquake, and monitoring efforts are ongoing.