Earthquake

2024 - 7 - 29

California Shook Up by 4.9 Magnitude Earthquake—Is the Big One Coming?

Alaska - Barstow - California - Earthquakes - Las Vegas - Seismograph - Seismology - ShakeAlert System - USGS - earthquake los angeles - earthquake now los angeles

A 4.9 earthquake rattled Southern California and was felt as far as Las Vegas. Get the scoop on what happened and what to expect next!

Southern California experienced a significant jolt on Monday afternoon when a 4.9 magnitude earthquake struck near Barstow. Reports from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) indicated that the quake occurred at approximately 1 p.m. local time, shaking parts of Southern California and reaching as far as Las Vegas. The temblor, which is considered light to moderate in terms of potential damage, still managed to rattle nerves and homes alike.

The earthquake's epicenter was located about 14 miles east-northeast of Barstow, a city known more for its Route 66 nostalgia than seismic activity. Despite the moderate categorization, many residents in the surrounding areas, including Los Angeles and the Las Vegas Valley, reported feeling the ground move. Several aftershocks followed the initial quake, with magnitudes ranging from 2.7 to 3.5, according to the USGS.

While there were no immediate reports of significant damage or injuries, the quake served as a reminder of the ever-present seismic activity in California. The shake-up also sparked conversations about earthquake preparedness and whether this could be a precursor to a more significant seismic event. California sits along the notorious San Andreas Fault, making the state a hotbed for earthquake activity. Experts, however, classify this particular quake as routine, though it's always wise to stay prepared.

Interestingly, Alaska also reported seismic activity on the same day, albeit on a much smaller scale. The Alaska Earthquake Center recorded several minor quakes, including a 1.3 magnitude in Skwentna and a 1.5 magnitude in McCarthy. These tiny tremors serve as a reminder that seismic activity isn't limited to the