Las Vegas Sun

April 26, 2024

Magnitude 3.9 earthquake felt in rural Northern Nevada

GERLACH — Seismologists say a magnitude 3.9 earthquake reported in rural northern Nevada was felt near the site of the Burning Man festival in the Black Rock Desert.

The Nevada Seismological Laboratory at the University of Nevada in Reno said Tuesday that the earthquake hit about 7:20 a.m. Saturday.

It marks the largest movement in a series of 300 earthquakes felt in Gerlach and Empire, which is about 75 miles north of Reno in the last month.

Gerlach is located near significant faults but hasn't had a major earthquake recorded in history.

Still, seismologists are warning people in the area to be prepared to survive for three days without access and services should one strike.

The Burning Man festival will be at the Black Rock Desert from August 28 to September 5.

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