Here's why:
* Transform Plate Boundary: The San Andreas Fault is a transform boundary where two tectonic plates slide past each other horizontally. This creates a lot of friction and stress, leading to earthquakes.
* Location: Fresno sits on the western edge of the North American Plate, while the Pacific Plate lies to the west. The San Andreas Fault acts as the boundary between these two plates, running along the coast of California.
While Fresno isn't directly on the fault line, it's close enough to be significantly affected by its activity.