Earthquake

Shake, Rattle, and Roll: Ontario Quake Gives SoCal a Jolt!

Did an Ontario earthquake just shake up your lunch? Here's everything you need to know about the latest quake rocking Southern California!

On Tuesday afternoon, residents in Southern California experienced a little shake-up as a magnitude 3.1 earthquake rattled the Ontario area. With reports of tremors being felt in communities east of Los Angeles, many locals were left wondering if they just had one too many tacos for lunch. The U.S. Geological Survey confirmed the quake struck near Ontario International Airport, causing a stir but thankfully no significant damages or injuries. Over 1200 people felt the vibrations, and various social media platforms were buzzing with reactions ranging from disbelief to humor!

Just when Southern Californians thought it was safe to go back to their routines, a second rumble rocked the region, registering at a magnitude of 3.5. This earthquake added to the list of seismic events for the day and was felt by many more residents throughout the Los Angeles basin. Although these minor earthquakes can feel alarming, earthquakes of this size are relatively common in California, where the tectonic plates beneath our feet keep things interesting—if not a bit shaky!

Interestingly enough, while California is known for its extraordinary landscapes and beaches, it is equally known for its fault lines. The state sits atop the San Andreas Fault, which is responsible for most of the seismic activity felt in the region. For locals, a little earthquake now and then is just part of the Californian charm, much like enjoying a sunny day at the beach or sipping a craft beer at a local brewery.

What do you do when the ground shakes beneath your feet? If you’re one of the many California residents now pondering over this minor quake, remember to ‘drop, cover, and hold on’! Preparation and awareness are key, so use these instances as reminders to review safety precautions with your friends and family. Just don't forget to enjoy your tacos while they're still good! Did you know that California experiences about 10,000 earthquakes each year? Most are too small to be felt, but they keep reminding us that Mother Nature has a sense of humor that sometimes needs to be addressed!