Central Los Angeles Shaken by 4.4 Magnitude Earthquake

A magnitude 4.4 earthquake hit Pasadena before shaking Los Angeles and the surrounding areas at approximately 12:20 p.m. local time, according to the US Geological Survey. The quake was initially reported at a higher intensity of 4.7 but was later revised down. The earthquake originated at a depth of 7.5 miles directly beneath Los Angeles’ populated areas, leading to a wide felt experience despite its moderate intensity.

Reactions and Impact

Reports from residents highlight the strong shaking caused by the earthquake. One woman teaching at a nursing school in Glendale recounted: “It was a jolt. Then the building started to shake violently. It wasn’t a nice rolling one we usually experience. I had to hold onto the door jamb“.

The Los Angeles Fire Department rapidly entered earthquake mode, with crews from 106 fire station making checks across their districts. No injuries or structural damages were reported following this procedure, a relief amidst the initial concern following the tremor.

In Pasadena, Deputy Chief Anthony James of the Fire Department reported that he had felt the quake while driving. His reaction to the incident ran as follows: “I was parked next to a bus. It felt like the whole ground was going away from under me. I thought, ‘What was that?’ And quickly figured it out“.

Damage Report

Early damage reports from Pasadena are limited, with a broken water pipe being the only known incident so far. According to officials, a sprinkler head at the top of the city hall rotunda started leaking following the earthquake. There was also a minor incident where a person was temporarily trapped in an elevator.

Public Response and Precautionary Measures

Los Angeles County Supervisor, Holly Mitchell, said: “Thankfully, no major damages or road closures were reported due to the earthquake“. Supervisor Kathryn Barger took this incident as an opportunity to remind residents about the importance of being prepared for such events: “I want to remind L.A. County residents who are feeling jittery after today’s quake to visit ready.lacounty.gov. You’ll find helpful tips and information on how to prepare and be ready for earthquakes and any other hazard that can impact our County“.

Precedent Quakes and Anticipated Aftermath

Recent seismic activity in the area includes a magnitude 4.9 quake near Barstow at the end of July and a magnitude 5.2 temblor near Bakersfield just last week. Both incidents and Monday’s earthquake are part of the ongoing seismic activity often experienced within California.

According to geological studies, earthquakes ranging from 4 to 5 in magnitude usually result in light shaking and minimal to zero damage. However, the severity of an earthquake’s impact largely depends on its depth and distance from populated areas. As further evaluations are conducted, more information on the aftermath of this quake is expected to be revealed.