Los Angeles Shakedown

An unforeseen 4.4 magnitude earthquake struck the heavily occupied regions of Los Angeles County on Monday, shaking numerous buildings and causing distress among residents. The U.S. Geological Survey initially reported the earthquake as a 4.7 magnitude but quickly revised it to 4.4. Those located near the epicenter, Highland Park, experienced a major tremor followed by significant rattling that sent frightened pets scurrying.

“It was very, very scary,”

Aftershocks and Infrastructure Check

Fire departments across Los Angeles County promptly entered earthquake mode to evaluate potential damage to regional infrastructure. By 1:15 p.m., the Los Angeles city fire department concluded their assessment and reported no significant damage. However minor damage was reported in Pasadena, merely a few miles from the epicenter, where a pipe burst caused water leakage at the city hall, leading to an evacuation of approximately 200 employees. Firefighters were able to shut off the pipeline swiftly and also aided in freeing an individual trapped in a city hall elevator.

Fire crews also investigated reports of a broken gas line, although it’s yet to be confirmed if it’s related to the earthquake. One fire department official described the feeling of being out driving during the quake as if “the whole ground was going away from under me.”

Seismologists’ Insight on the Earthquake

Noted seismologist, Dr. Lucy Jones, explained the apparent-severity of the earthquake despite its 4.4 magnitude. The earthquake’s significant impact is attributed to the densely populated area it struck. Many earthquakes hitting less-populated regions don’t feel as strong once they reverberate to the urban heartland.

Dr. Jones stated, “There’s a lot of people on top of this earthquake,” “The other earthquakes you’ve been feeling… that’s because you were farther away.”

In terms of identifying the specific fault involved, the seismologist mentioned the challenge. The Highland Park region hosts a network of hidden faults that do not appear on the surface like those elsewhere. While the same network was implicated in the 1987 Whittier Narrows quake, it’s uncertain whether it’s the same strand due to its complex and deep-seated nature.

Preparation for Future Seismic Events

Authorities have urged all residents to stock their earthquake kits with crucial items to be prepared for substantial seismic incidents in the future. The key is to keep the kit within arm’s reach and continuously replenish it with necessary items such as fresh water, canned food, a first aid kit, and a flashlight among other essentials.