Key Takeaways:
– Two significant earthquakes hit Southern California within five days of each other, one of 3.6 magnitude and another of 4.7.
– The earthquakes were located in Malibu, and aftershocks were felt in nearby areas, including Los Angeles County.
– No significant injuries or substantial damage were reported.
– Experts advise understanding stringent safety measures to minimize harm during earthquakes.
The calm of Southern California was shaken by two earthquakes within five days. The quakes have left many residents jittery, questioning if the increased frequency of tremors might be a sign of something more significant on the horizon.
Southern California Earthquakes: An Overview
On Monday, Sep 16, a 3.6 magnitude earthquake jolted the Malibu area. Just days earlier, on Thursday, September 12, a 4.7 magnitude quake had already rattled nerves in most of Los Angeles County. Understandably, the escalating frequency and magnitude of these natural events have heightened local anxiety.
Regarding the quake on September 16, the US Geological Survey confirmed its occurrence. The earthquake struck at a depth of around seven miles at 4:22 a.m. Pacific Time. Luckily, no immediate damage or injuries were reported.
The September 12 earthquake initially measured at a magnitude of 5.1 was later downgraded to 4.7, according to NBC Los Angeles. Again, no injuries or infrastructure damage were reported. A tweet from the California Geological Survey stated that “Moderate shaking was felt near the epicenter and the west Los Angeles area,” along with warning residents to anticipate aftershocks.
Aftershock Scenarios
KTLA’s Eric Spillman suggested the September 16 tremor could likely be an aftershock of the September 12 quake. Despite no shaking detected at KTLA’s studio in Hollywood, the U.S. Geological Survey’s “Did You Feel It?” map displayed the quake’s presence felt as far as Long Beach to the southeast and Ventura to the northwest.
After the 4.7 magnitude earthquake on September 12, several minor aftershocks were reported. The biggest among these was a 2.8 magnitude shake, just two minutes after the initial quake. Residents in areas such as Hermosa Beach, Anaheim, Santa Monica, and Malibu were advised to anticipate more aftershocks to come.
Being Prepared: Safety Measures During an Earthquake
In light of these earthquakes, it’s critical for individuals to be aware of the right safety measures. Do remember to:
– Drop to your hands and knees to prevent being knocked over.
– Cover under a sturdy object and hold onto it until the shaking stops.
– Stay indoors and avoid running outside.
– Stay far from windows, glass, and other items that could shatter.
– Seek open areas away from buildings, streetlights, and utility wires if outside.
– Stop driving and stay inside your vehicle until the shaking stops if you’re in a vehicle.
– Be aware of potential aftershocks and comply with emergency instructions.
Southern Californians have grown accustomed to living with the reality of earthquakes. However, the frequency and magnitude of recent rumblings are a timely reminder for everyone to stay alert and prepared. We never know when Mother Earth will shake things up.