Kern County was hit by a 5.3 magnitude earthquake on Tuesday night, centered in Lamont, California, not far from Bakersfield, according to the USGS.
The 5.3 earthquake hit at 9:09 p.m. PT and was followed by several aftershocks.
The Earthquake was felt across Los Angeles and down into Orange County.
A screengrab of the USGS showing the epicenter of the 5.3 earthquake that hit California on Tuesday night (PHOTO: USGS)
USGS
More than a dozen aftershocks took place following the main quake, including one measuring 4.5 magnitude, and another one at 4.1, both located in the same area as the main quake.
There continue to be tremors in the Grapevine area, which is between Santa Clarita, north of Los Angeles, and Kern County, the USGS reported.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office tells KABC7 Los Angeles there were no reports of damage in LA County so far. The LA Fire Department, however, is in earthquake mode.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
On July 15, 2021, a 5.3 magnitude earthquake struck near Bakersfield, California, sending shockwaves through the region and leaving residents on edge. The quake, which originated approximately 10 miles southwest of Bakersfield, was felt as far away as Los Angeles and Fresno.
The earthquake, which occurred at a depth of 6.6 miles, caused buildings to sway and rattled nerves throughout the area. While there were no immediate reports of major damage or injuries, residents were reminded of the importance of being prepared for such events.
Earthquakes are a common occurrence in California, which sits along the volatile Pacific Ring of Fire. The state is crisscrossed by numerous fault lines, including the infamous San Andreas Fault, which is capable of producing devastating earthquakes.
In the wake of the recent quake, experts are urging residents to take steps to prepare for future seismic events. This includes securing heavy furniture and appliances, creating an emergency kit with essentials such as food, water, and first aid supplies, and developing a family emergency plan.
Additionally, residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Drop, Cover, and Hold On protocol for earthquake safety. This involves dropping to the ground, taking cover under a sturdy piece of furniture, and holding on until the shaking stops.
While earthquakes can be frightening and unpredictable, being prepared can help mitigate their impact and ensure the safety of you and your loved ones. By taking proactive steps to prepare for seismic events, residents can better protect themselves and their communities in the event of a major earthquake.
