On Thursday night, a 3.8 magnitude earthquake shook Southern California near San Bernardino County, as reported by the United States Geological Survey (USGS).
The quake’s epicenter was just outside of Ontario, approximately six miles south of Rancho Cucamonga and about 18 miles southwest of San Bernardino, according to the USGS. Its effects were felt as far away as Los Angeles and Huntington Beach.
The USGS noted that the earthquake originated approximately eight miles underground and occurred around 11:38 p.m. local time on Thursday. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.
This earthquake follows a series of seismic activities in the region, with nearly 20 earthquakes rattling parts of Southern California in recent days. The occurrence underscores the region’s ongoing seismic activity and the need for preparedness measures among residents.
The initial earthquake recorded on February 11 struck just northwest of El Centro, California, with a magnitude of 4.8, according to the USGS. Following this event, a series of earthquakes continued to occur around El Centro and Imperial, two cities situated east of San Diego near the Mexico border.
The USGS emphasizes that there isn’t a specific magnitude threshold above which damage will inevitably occur. The potential for damage depends on various factors, including the distance from the earthquake’s epicenter, the type of soil in the area, the construction of buildings, among others. However, the USGS notes that damage typically becomes more likely once the earthquake magnitude exceeds approximately 4 or 5.
Understanding these factors underscores the importance of earthquake preparedness and building resilience in communities prone to seismic activity. It’s crucial for residents and authorities in earthquake-prone areas to be aware of the risks and take appropriate measures to mitigate potential damage and ensure public safety.