Hundreds of aftershocks have been recorded since a magnitude 6.0 earthquake hit near the Central California town of Parkfield at 10:15 Tuesday.

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Parkfield Quake Aftermath

The 6.0 magnitude earthquake that rattled the Bay Area on Tuesday could be a precursor to a larger temblor to follow, according to U.S. Geological Survey seismologist Andrew Michael.

The earthquake was centered about seven miles southeast of Parkfield along the San Andreas fault, with a series of aftershocks ranging in magnitude from 2.7 to 5.0 reported since the initial quake.

Michael said the worst might be yet to come, as there is a 5 percent chance of a larger earthquake to follow over the next few days.

There has been minor damage reported in Parkfield, which is currently without power due to a blown transformer on Godchaux Street, according to Office of Emergency Services spokeswoman Bertha Simpson.

Between 30 to 60 small aftershocks are expected over the next week, and should be felt within a 20-mile radius of the initial earthquake's center.

Tuesday's earthquake may actually help seismologists predict future quakes, as it was centered at the Parkfield Earthquake Prediction Experiment.

Michael said seismologists have been anticipating an earthquake of similar portion to Tuesday's rattler for the past 38 years, as there has historically been about a 23-year interval between quakes in the Parkfield area.

The will boost efforts by scientists who are trying to predict future quakes.

Since the earthquake struck near the San Andreas fault -- in what is considered a seismic hot spot -- researchers say Tuesday's shaking was one of the most recorded seismic events in history.

The quake caused only minor damage, and no injuries were reported.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.