A 4.7 magnitude earthquake centered in Malibu, California, rocked the Los Angeles area Thursday morning, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
A 2.8 magnitude aftershock was registered in Malibu two minutes after the initial quake.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.
The Los Angeles area is no stranger to earthquakes, as it sits along the infamous San Andreas Fault line. This fault line is responsible for some of the most devastating earthquakes in California’s history, including the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and the 1994 Northridge earthquake.
On July 4, 2019, residents of the Los Angeles area were jolted awake by a magnitude 6.4 earthquake centered near the town of Ridgecrest, about 150 miles north of Los Angeles. This earthquake was followed by an even stronger magnitude 7.1 quake the following day, causing widespread damage and shaking buildings as far away as Las Vegas.
While these earthquakes were not directly on the San Andreas Fault line, they serve as a reminder of the constant threat of seismic activity in the region. The San Andreas Fault is a major tectonic boundary between the Pacific Plate and the North American Plate, and it is capable of producing large earthquakes with magnitudes exceeding 8.0.
In the event of a major earthquake in the Los Angeles area, it is important for residents to be prepared. This includes having an emergency kit with essentials such as water, food, first aid supplies, and a flashlight. It is also important to have a plan in place for how to communicate with loved ones and where to meet in case of separation.
Building codes in California are some of the strictest in the country when it comes to earthquake safety, but older buildings may still be at risk. It is important for residents to retrofit their homes and buildings to ensure they are up to code and able to withstand strong shaking.
In addition to being prepared at home, it is also important for businesses and schools to have emergency plans in place for earthquakes. This includes conducting regular drills and training employees on what to do in the event of a quake.
While earthquakes are a fact of life in the Los Angeles area, being prepared and staying informed can help residents mitigate the risks and stay safe during a seismic event. By taking proactive measures and staying vigilant, residents can better protect themselves and their loved ones from the potential devastation of a major earthquake.
