2.9-magnitude quake hit Carson City Wednesday morning

If Carson City residents forgot that Nevada is one of the most seismic states, a recent series of temblors stands to remind them.

More than 20 quakes have hit in Carson City since May 24, including a 2.9-magnitude quake at 5:59 a.m. Wednesday. The University of Nevada, Reno seismology lab reported the quake about 5 miles southeast of downtown. The quake was followed by several small aftershocks.

According to reporting done to the U.S. Geological Survey, more than 30 people including residents of Minden said they felt the quake. There were no reports of damage.

“There’s nothing unusual going on,” said Ken Smith, seismic network manager at the URN seismology lab. Nevada ranks fourth nationally in seismic activity.

The quakes were appearing on the north end of the Genoa fault, Smith said. The depth of 9 kilometers could mean the quakes were on the east side of the fault, instead of the west side, he said, adding it’s impossible to know the exact location without more information.

Residents who feel earthquakes can report them to the USGS at http://earthquake.usgs.gov/earthquakes/dyfi.

Smith also urged residents to be earthquake-prepared. Tips on how to prepare in case of a major quake are at www.seismo.unr.edu/Preparedness.

“(The Genoa fault) is a major fault,” Smith said. “It is capable of a large event.”