A 4.4 magnitude earthquake struck the heavily populated area of Highland Park in Los Angeles County, sending residents scrambling and buildings shaking. While there were no major injuries or damage reported, the quake was felt across a wide area, from San Diego County to Simi Valley. Videos shared by those closest to the epicenter showed the jolt and rattling that left many feeling scared.
The earthquake struck around 12:20 p.m. at a depth of nearly six miles, with the epicenter located in Highland Park. It was originally reported as a 4.7 magnitude quake but was quickly downgraded. The Los Angeles city and county fire departments activated earthquake mode to survey the region for damage, concluding with no significant findings of infrastructure damage.
Some minor damage was reported in Pasadena, only a few miles from the epicenter, where a pipe broke at City Hall, resulting in water flowing onto the sidewalk. Fortunately, only one person was briefly trapped in an elevator and firefighters quickly freed them.
Seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones explained that the densely populated area of the earthquake may have made it feel more intense than other quakes of similar magnitude experienced in more remote locations. The exact fault involved in the quake is difficult to pinpoint due to the network of buried faults in the area.
While earthquakes are a common occurrence in Southern California, it is essential for residents to be prepared. ABC7 has compiled a list of items to include in your earthquake kit to ensure you are ready for any future seismic events.
Overall, the earthquake serves as a reminder of the constant seismic activity in Southern California and the importance of being prepared for emergencies. By having an earthquake kit and staying informed about safety measures, residents can better protect themselves and their families in the event of a quake.
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