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Earthquake of 4.2 Magnitude Hits Inland Empire; No Significant Damage Reported

StoriesEarthquake of 4.2 Magnitude Hits Inland Empire; No Significant Damage Reported

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) reported an earthquake of 4.2 magnitude near Lytle Creek, a census-designated area close to Rancho Cucamonga in the San Gabriel Mountains, occurring at 10:55 AM. Initially, the earthquake was assessed as a 4.6-magnitude tremor, later downgraded to 4.4, then 4.1. Shortly before 11:20 AM, it was upgraded to a 4.2-magnitude earthquake.

Officials noted that the earthquake happened in an area where the San Andreas and San Jacinto fault lines intersect, an area known for significant seismic activity.

Damage

There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries. Geologists mention that typically, damage is less likely until the earthquake magnitude reaches around 4 or 5.

Seismologist Dr. Lucy Jones stated that Friday’s earthquake occurred near Lytle Creek in Cajon Pass, where the San Andreas and San Jacinto fault lines meet. A similar spot experienced a magnitude 5.2 earthquake in 1970, preceded by a magnitude 4.0 foreshock. Reports from the USGS “Did You Feel It?” map indicate people felt the quake as far as San Diego, over 120 miles from the epicenter.

USGS provides state-specific earthquake information and preparedness tips, particularly for Californians.

Dr. Lucy Jones Words

Dr. Jones mentioned that while this quake isn’t necessarily alarming, it’s a good opportunity to discuss disaster preparedness plans with family and friends.

“People supporting each other help us cope during significant disasters,” Jones emphasized in an interview on Friday. She explained that a San Andreas earthquake would likely be one of California’s most severe quakes. The length of a fault determines the quake’s magnitude, and the San Andreas fault spans California, capable of generating substantial earthquakes.

Jones highlighted that the San Andreas fault experiences more frequent seismic activity since it’s the fastest-moving fault in California. Consequently, any seismic activity near it raises concerns.

A 2008 report, “The Shakeout Scenario,” aimed to model the effects of a major 7.8 magnitude earthquake on the southern San Andreas fault. The report estimated potential consequences: 1,800 deaths and $213 billion in economic losses.

According to Jones, the creation of that report led to the development of the Shakeout Earthquake Drill.

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