An earthquake centered in the Malibu area produced shaking Thursday morning in widespread parts of Southern California from the coast to inland communities. The quake's initial magnitude of 5.1 was soon downgraded to 4.7. It was followed by aftershocks with magnitudes ranging from 1.8 to 3.4 with more aftershocks possible in the hours and days ahead.
Centered just north of Malibu, shaking from the 7:28 a.m. quake at a depth of about seven miles was reported in Malibu, Hermosa Beach, La Mirada, Anaheim, Santa Monica, the Hollywood Hills and parts of the San Fernando Valley. Shaking is more likely to be felt from shallow earthquakes, which are those between 0 and about 40 miles deep.
There were no immediate reports of injuries or significant damage.
Trains will be slowed on Los Angeles' Metro system to check for damage, which is standard procedure following an earthquake.
Southern California has felt shaking from several earthquakes in recent weeks, including a magnitude-5.2 quake located south of Bakersfield.
"We are having earthquakes. None of them have been damaging. They've all been small," said seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones. "This is a really good reminder that the quiet of the last couple of decades is not our long-term picture."
Earthquake Details
The earthquake, initially reported as a 5.1 magnitude, was later downgraded to 4.7 by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). It struck around 7:28 a.m. at a depth of nearly six miles. The shaking was felt as far as 60 miles away, with reports of shaking reaching Riverside and Newport Beach.
Aftershocks
Several aftershocks rumbled the area over the following hour, including a 3.4 around 8:40 a.m. Dr. Jones indicated that the region has had more than an average number of 4.0 magnitude earthquake sequences this year. The average is about eight a year, but Southern California has seen 14. The previous high was 13.
Impact and Response
Despite the widespread shaking, there have been no reports of injuries or damage. Crews were sent out to assess roadways and buildings in the city, according to a statement from Malibu City Councilman Bruce Silverstein.
Seismologist's Insights
Dr. Lucy Jones, a renowned seismologist, addressed the recent earthquake activity in Southern California. While she acknowledged the increase in earthquake activity, she cautioned against jumping to conclusions. "Notice these numbers are small, however. So yes, we are feeling it but it's not yet statistically significant."
Jones also emphasized that the earthquake was not related to the weather. "Seismologists look for patterns. Everybody looks for patterns. That's why we have myths of earthquake weather and animals. All these things are us trying to form a pattern in what is inherently a random distribution," Jones added.
A Reminder of California's Seismic Activity
The earthquake serves as a reminder of California's seismic activity. It's crucial to be prepared for earthquakes, as they can happen at any time. Jones reminded the public that "In Southern California, every one of us is within five miles of an active fault."
This event highlights the importance of having an earthquake preparedness plan in place. This includes securing heavy objects, identifying safe spots in your home, and having a communication plan with family and friends.
The Future: A Question of When, Not If
While the recent earthquake activity has increased, Dr. Jones emphasizes that the region is still experiencing a "quiet period." It is important to remember that the earth is constantly shifting and that earthquakes are a natural part of life in California. It's a matter of when, not if, the next major earthquake will strike. Staying informed and prepared is key to mitigating potential risks and ensuring safety.
