3.6 Magnitude Earthquake Strikes Near Banning

No immediate reports of damage or injuries from the moderate quake.

Feb. 19, 2026 at 6:31am

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A 3.6 magnitude earthquake struck near the city of Banning in Riverside County, California on Tuesday morning. The quake was centered about 5 miles northeast of Banning and 10 miles south-southeast of Beaumont, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

Why it matters

Earthquakes are a common occurrence in Southern California, with the region experiencing hundreds of small to moderate quakes each year. While this earthquake did not cause any reported damage or injuries, it serves as a reminder of the seismic activity in the area and the importance of earthquake preparedness.

The details

The earthquake hit at 10:33 a.m. local time at a depth of about 5 miles. No damage or injuries were immediately reported, and the Banning Municipal Airport did not report any issues. The quake was felt as far away as the Coachella Valley and the San Gorgonio Pass area.

  • The earthquake struck at 10:33 a.m. local time on February 17, 2026.

The players

U.S. Geological Survey

The U.S. Geological Survey is a scientific agency of the United States government that studies the landscape of the United States, its natural resources, and the natural hazards that threaten it.

Banning Municipal Airport

The Banning Municipal Airport is a public airport located in Banning, California, about 85 miles east of Los Angeles.

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The takeaway

This earthquake serves as a reminder for residents in Southern California to be prepared for seismic activity by having an emergency kit, making a family plan, and staying informed about earthquake safety.