An earthquake rattled a large area of Northern California on Thursday.
The earthquake hit less than a mile from the Earth's surface near Lake Almanor, about 3 miles southwest of East Shore, around 4:20 p.m. local time, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
The quake had a preliminary magnitude of 5.5.
Several aftershocks were reported in the same area minutes after the earthquake hit. According to the USGS, one aftershock was a magnitude 5 while four others were magnitude 3 or higher.
The tremors were felt all the way to Sacramento, about 160 miles south.
No damage or injuries were immediately reported. The California Geological Survey said it will continue to monitor the area for damage.
The California Highway Patrol said that the earthquake caused a disruption at its Chico Dispatch center, taking down cell phone and 911 lines. Residents in the area in need of emergency assistance were instructed to call 530-332-1200 while officials work to fix the issue. As of Friday morning, no further update was provided.
The California Governor's Office of Emergency Services said it was monitoring impacts of the earthquake, and warned of potential aftershocks.
"We are working with local first responders to evaluate any damage & render aid to the impacted communities," the agency said on Twitter. "Those in the impacted region should prepare for aftershocks & check on vulnerable neighbors."
The USGS estimates a chance of additional aftershocks within the next week until May 19, the majority of which are anticipated to measure around magnitude 3.
"According to our forecast, there is a 3% chance of one or more aftershocks that are larger than magnitude 5, which can be damaging, within the next week," the USGS said. "There will likely be smaller aftershocks within the next week, with up to eight magnitude 3 or higher aftershocks. Magnitude 3 and higher aftershocks are large enough to be felt nearby."
Authorities are asking any residents in the area who felt the earthquake and related aftershocks to fill out a reporting form.
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